18 Sep 2024 | 12:39 PM UTC
Trinidad and Tobago: Elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in September /update 2
Elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Trinidad and Tobago in September. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas across Trinidad and Tobago, with an additional 496 confirmed cases reported between Aug. 25-Sept. 17, bringing the total to 1,407 confirmed cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to 126 total cases (19 confirmed cases) reported in 2023. Counties reporting the highest number of confirmed cases include Victoria, Caroni, St. Georges East, and St. Patrick. Local health officials urge the public to take the necessary mosquito bite prevention measures, including regularly cleaning the areas around their homes and clearing standing water. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 18.
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 considered a year-round, nationwide threat in Trinidad and Tobago. Health authorities identified roughly 126 total cases of dengue fever in Trinidad and Tobago in 2023, 52 cases in 2022, 20 cases in 2021, and 59 cases in 2020.
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. 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.
