Be vigilant against dengue - Tufton

Minister of Health Dr Christopher Tufton is urging precaution against the dengue fever virus, including destroying mosquito breeding sites in and around the home.

He said that while there has been an "unusually high" number of reported cases of dengue in the island, this is not remarkable for this time of the year, reiterating that there is no outbreak of the virus.

"Right now, there is a concern that we have an outbreak of dengue by those persons who do not have the data and who are understandably concerned, particularly if they know someone or have a relative or friend who is affected by signs or symptoms of dengue. We cannot classify the situation as an outbreak. We can say, however, that there are cases and we need to be vigilant," he said.

To prevent against contracting dengue, persons are advised to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by discarding items that collect water, like old drums; installing mosquito netting over the bed, wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants outdoors; using DEET-containing mosquito repellent; and regularly changing water in animal and pet containers.