KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) to investigate a case of a potential mosquito-borne viral illness.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Marion Bullock DuCasse says a sample was taken from an individual and was sent to CARPHA for confirmation.

“The sample will be tested for viruses, including dengue, chikungunya and zika. We are taking the precaution to rule out these diseases, in particular the zika virus, which has never been identified in Jamaica nor the Latin American and Caribbean region outside of Brazil. The ministry has heightened its response given that this is the period where we usually see an increase in mosquito-borne illnesses,” Dr DuCasse is quoted in a press release from the Health Ministry.

Executive Director of CARPHA Dr James Hospedales says: “The sample was received today; will be processed by tomorrow and the results should be available by Friday”.

Minister of Health, Dr Fenton Ferguson has discussed the matter with Dr Hospedales and the Director of PAHO, Dr Carissa Etienne, both of whom have pledged the full support of their institutions if the sample is positive.

The news release said the patient has been interviewed by the health team and contact investigation is presently being done. According to the ministry, the vector control team has increased fogging activities in and around the areas that may be affected. Household visits will also be done by the Health Department and public education activities will be increased, it continued.

The chief medical officer continues to stress the importance of people destroying mosquito breeding sites and protecting themselves from mosquito bites.

“Chikungunya, dengue and zika viruses are spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Persons need to understand that they have a very great responsibility to reduce mosquito breeding,” Dr DuCasse said.

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is almost always found in and around areas where people live, work and play. People are urged to search for and destroy mosquito breeding sites in and around their homes, workplaces and communities by getting rid of old tyres and containers in which water can settle, punching holes in tins before disposing, and covering large drums, barrels and tanks holding water.

Chikungunya, dengue and zika have similar symptoms, including mild to severe fever, joint and muscle pain, headache, weakness, and a rash. Other symptoms can include diarrhoea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.

The Health Ministry is urging those who wish to obtain more information on chikungunya, dengue and zika viruses to call the Ministry of Health or the nearest health centre.