Over 1000 confirmed cases of Dengue, reports MOH

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed that as of November 30, there were 1,301 confirmed Dengue cases in Jamaica.

The Ministry also confirmed there has been 12 Dengue-related deaths – eight of which have been classified as suspected and four as confirmed.

Kingston & St. Andrew has reported the highest number of cases for 2023 at 1,232. While St Thomas continues with the highest rate of 541.4 cases per 100,000 population. 

The highest number of cases continues to be observed in the 5–14-year-old cohort at a rate of 623.1 cases per 100,000 population.

The Ministry is again reminding the public that 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," it said in a statement. 

"Persons are asked to play their part in ensuring that the Dengue cases are minimised by monitoring water storage containers for mosquito breeding; keeping surroundings free of debris; destroying or treating potential mosquito breeding sites; wearing protective clothing and using a DEET containing mosquito repellent." 

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