KINGSTON, Jamaica — Over the weekend, the Ministry of Health declared that the country is currently experiencing an outbreak of dengue fever.

According to the ministry’s National Surveillance Unit, Jamaica surpassed the dengue epidemic threshold for July and August and is expected to do the same for September.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease that is usually accompanied by a fever, headache, joint, and muscle pains. With enough rest and proper hydration, one usually recovers well from the illness but acetaminophen/paracetamol is the recommended treatment course.

The ministry has advised members of the public against the use of aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, or any of the medications/pain relievers known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). According to studies, these drugs, when used to treat the fever associated with dengue, have been known to increase the severity of the disease.

So how does one prevent Dengue?

Approximately 500 temporary vector control workers have been engaged and deployed across the island to communities considered high-risk areas for the disease. These persons are responsible for carrying out search and destroy operations to rid the communities of mosquito breeding sites. But while the ministry is playing its part in ensuring the outbreak is contained, there are preventative measures individuals can carry out as well.

They are as follows:

1. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites aroundones home by discarding old drums, used tyres, plastic containers and other items that collect rainwater. These items act as breeding ground for the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

2. Ensure one’s sleeping area has a mosquito netting over the bed.

3. Avoid mosquito bites even during the day by wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants outdoors.

4. Use mosquito repellent on skin and clothing.

5. Regularly change water in animals and pets containers.

Since 2019 the Government of Jamaica, through the Ministry of Health & Wellness has made significant investments in the vector control programme with over J$300 million in acquisition of vehicles, fogging machines and the expansion of the number of staff dedicated to the vector management programme.

Since July 2023, the parish health departments have been engaged in enhanced fogging and treatment of breeding sites. This has resulted in a seven-day extended work week for fogging and other mosquito eradication activities by the team.

The ministry will also extend opening hours for all Type 3–5 Health Centres to 8:00 pm starting Monday, October 2, 2023. This is to facilitate people visiting these facilities to receive treatment and referrals where necessary.

Additionally, as of Monday, October 2, 2023, children under the age of 18 years who visit the University Hospital of the West Indies will not be charged a fee or be required to pay for services at the facility.