The US Virgin Islands Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion says cases of Dengue virus are surging in certain parts of the island. He urged residents and visitors on the US Virgin to take precautions to prevent themselves from being with dengue.
In an update yesterday Encarnacion reported cases are surging in the St Thomas and St John District.
“To date we have 82 reported cases of dengue in the territory, and we are once again strongly urging residents to take steps now to prevent wider transmission,” Encarnacion said. “Remove standing water from around your home, repair your window screens if there are holes or tears, and use mosquito repellent when outdoors. These simple steps significantly reduce the risk of dengue.”
Dr Esther Ellis, the VI Department of Health’s Territorial Epidemiologist, revealed 63 of the reported cases are on St Thomas, are on 18 cases on St John, and one case is on St Croix.
“We are aware that our numbers on St Croix are underestimating our true dengue burden, and I encourage residents to get tested for dengue if you have symptoms,” Ellis said. “Additionally with recent heavy rains, standing water allows mosquitoes to hatch and reproduce.”
Dengue (break-bone fever) is a viral infection that spreads from the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to people. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates. Most people who get dengue will not have symptoms. But for those who do, the most common symptoms are high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash.
Dr Tai Hunte-Ceasar, Chief Medical Officer for the VI Department of Health, is also advising the public to see their healthcare provider if they begin to experience symptoms of dengue, which can range from mild to life threatening.
“If you are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to see your doctor and get tested to confirm whether you have dengue or another illness,” said Hunte-Ceasar. “This is the only way we can accurately track the rate of dengue in our community.”
