Senior Reporter
sascha.wilson@guardian.co.tt
A medical doctor is urging the public to adopt precautionary and preventive measures against the deadly dengue virus amid a surge in cases in the country. In a telephone interview yesterday, Dr Joel Teelucksingh highlighted the rise in dengue cases across Latin America and the Caribbean. He noted that the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported an increasing number of cases, with Puerto Rico declaring dengue a public health emergency in March.
“Dengue, although it is endemic in T&T and that word means it is present at a certain level throughout the year, there has been an increased rate of hospitalisation due to dengue fever and severe dengue,” Teelucksingh explained.
He anticipated that the dengue cases would increase during the rainy season.
“This increase is concerning and it is critical for the public to be aware of the warning signs of severe dengue, prevention measures and necessary precautions to protect your families,” he said.
Teelucksingh advised monitoring for severe symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, shortness of breath or rapid breathing, increasing listlessness, restlessness, confusion, or blood in vomit or stool. He stressed that these symptoms required immediate hospitalisation.
“Prevention is key in controlling dengue,” he said.
“People must eliminate breeding grounds of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito in and around their properties, including removing stagnant water in items such as tires, flower pots, and buckets. To prevent mosquito bites, wear long-sleeved clothing and socks, and use mosquito repellents and nets.” He also warned against using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, as they could increase the risk of bleeding.
“It is important to stay vigilant and proactive not just in preventing mosquito bites but in eliminating the breeding grounds of the vector and seeking medical attention promptly if you suspect severe dengue and if any red flags are present,” he added.
Meanwhile, Siparia Mayor Doodnath Mayhroo reported 125 cases, with 20 confirmed, across the Siparia region. Tragically, a 16-year-old girl from Fyzabad succumbed to the virus about two weeks ago.
Although spraying and fogging are the responsibility of the Ministry of Health’s Insect Vector Control Division (IVCD), Mayor Mayhroo noted that the corporation had been assisting with limited resources and manpower. He mentioned that the IVCD had a transport issue two weeks ago, but it was unclear if it had been resolved.
“We have already covered a greater part of the Fyzabad/Avocat area this week. Spraying has been conducted in San Francique and Pluck Road,” he said, adding that today they would be visiting Cedros.
Tunapuna Piarco Regional Corporation chairman Desell Austin said they received reports in Waterfield, Kelly Village, and Maturita areas, and the IVCD was handling these reports with assistance where possible.
Sangre Grande Regional Corporation chairman Kerwyn Phillip reported no cases but received several requests for spraying. He stated that the IVCD is working closely with the corporation, and they had a meeting with them on Wednesday.
Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh last week denied claims of hundreds of cases, stating that there were 123 cases between January and May. The minister also mentioned that in preparation for the rainy season, the ministry had started its dengue and mosquito sensitisation programme as early as February.