Jamaica records Dengue fever death

September 04, 2018

Dengue fever has claimed the life of a man in Trelawny. 

The ministry of health said that the man, who died in August, is believed to have died as a result of dengue haemorrhagic fever, is a mosquito-borne illness.

In keeping with trends in recent years, the health ministry said that the number of cases of mosquito-borne diseases will increase in late August to October. The ministry said it has begun mosquito-control activities, including a public education campaign, home inspections, destruction of breeding sites and fogging.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that is usually a mild illness in which a person may get a fever, headache, joint, and muscle pains. Rest and adequate hydration are usually enough to see one through the period of illness. The recommended treatment for the fever is acetaminophen/paracetamol.

The health ministry urges members of the public not to use aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, or any of the medications/pain relievers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.  These drugs, when used to treat the fever in dengue, have been known to increase the severity of the disease. 

Members of the public are encouraged to play their  part in ensuring  that the cases of Dengue fever are minimised by monitoring water storage containers for mosquito breeding. Persons are also asked to keep their surroundings free of debris; destroy or treat potential mosquito breeding sites and wear protective clothing.

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