Jamaica: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in October /update 1

Event

International health authorities continue to report elevated dengue fever activity across multiple areas in Jamaica, with an additional 1,456 suspected cases reported Sept. 17-23, bringing the total case count to 2,021 suspected cases, of which 205 were confirmed cases. This is compared to the 59 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. The majority of the confirmed cases were reported in Kingston, Portland, Saint Andrew, Saint Catherine, Saint James, and Saint Thomas. The Jamaican Ministry of Health and Wellness has deployed vector control workers across the island to high-risk communities. This report represents the most complete data available as of Oct. 16.

Context

Dengue fever is a nationwide, year-round risk in Jamaica, with risk of infection typically highest May-October. Jamaica reported roughly 100 dengue fever cases nationwide in 2022, 96 cases in 2021, and 898 cases in 2020.

There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia and Qdenga. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner.

Advice

If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.