06 Aug 2024 | 06:40 AM UTC
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in early August
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in early August. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with 119 cases reported Jan. 1-Aug. 2. This is compared to the 14 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. Most of the country is affected. Health officials are enhancing public awareness, increasing surveillance and vector control measures, and engaging a private company for additional mosquito control and breeding site management, especially in the Southern Grenadines. This report represents the most complete data available as of Aug. 5.
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.
Dengue Fever is endemic in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The country is in hurricane season, which spans from June through November. This, combined with hotter-than-normal temperatures, creates favorable conditions for mosquito breeding and virus transmission. Health authorities reported roughly 1,603 cases in 2020, 152 cases in 2021, 25 cases in 2022, and 17 cases in 2023.
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 promptly. There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV) and Qdenga (TAK-003). Dengvaxia is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and who live in dengue-endemic countries or areas. Qdenga is recommended for use in children aged 6–16 in settings with high dengue burden and transmission intensity. Check with your healthcare provider if dengue vaccination is needed.
