223 new dengue cases, no new deaths

A Ministry of Health release says 223 additional people have been diagnosed with dengue through a laboratory, making the total 1,802 for this year.

Deaths have remained at 19 since the ministry's last update on September 27.

The ministry said up to October 18, 1,324 yellow fever notices were issued to property owners/occupiers, directing them to clean up their surroundings. Of these, it said, 81 property owners/occupiers have since been identified "for the consideration/institution of legal proceedings for non-compliance."

About dengue

The ministry reminded the public that insect-borne disease can be spread through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. It said symptoms appear within five to six days of being bitten and could last between one to two weeks. These symptoms include fever, headaches (sometimes severe), pain behind eyes, muscle and joint pains, skin rash, nausea/ vomiting and/or diarrhoea.

It warned anyone showing signs or symptoms of dengue fever should seek immediate medical treatment at their doctor or the nearest health facility.

Keeping dengue at bay

The ministry reminded the public the best way to mitigate the spread of the disease and other mosquito-borne illnesses is through eliminating their breeding sites.

The ministry reminded the public the best way to mitigate the spread of the disease and other mosquito-borne illnesses is through eliminating their breeding sites.

To do this it advised people to:

* dispose of unwanted items that can collect water

* cover water containers like tanks/barrels/drums/buckets

* cut and remove all bush or undergrowth that can harbour mosquitoes

* clean drains and guttering to allow the free flow of water

* use mosquito nets and insect repellent when appropriate.