May 29, 2008 – Health Commissioner Vivian I. Ebbesen-Fludd reminds residents that June 1 is the start of the hurricane season; this means increased rains can make certain areas near the home a haven for mosquito breeding and place residents at risk for dengue fever, according to a press release from the V.I. Department of Health.
Dengue fever is a virus transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito and symptoms include headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. More complicated cases can result in dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is characterized by high fever, bleeding and circulatory failure. In rare instances, it may result in death.
The hurricane season runs June 1 to Nov. 30, and residents can help their community and the Health Department stop the spread of dengue fever by doing basic things:
§ Keep tires in dry place
§ Put plants that are currently in water, into soil. Empty flowerpot bases weekly
§ Keep barrels tightly sealed
§ Cover or turn pet dishes and buckets that hold water upside down
§ Place a screen or mesh over the overflow pipe of cisterns
§ Repair or replace damaged screens and keep windows and doors without screens closed
§ Cover infant cribs with mosquito netting
§ Use mosquito repellants containing DEET. Follow instructions carefully and use on arms, legs, ankles and nape of neck. Avoid applying repellant to eyes, lips or bruised skin as well as to children under 2-years-old and to the hands of older children
Commissioner Ebbesen-Fludd reminds healthcare providers that the fever is a reportable disease and that all medical agencies, clinics and private physicians territory-wide are required to report any such cases to: 773-1311, ext. 3241.
To report large pools of stagnant water, contact the Environmental Health Division on St. Croix at 773-1311, ext. 3109, and on St. Thomas at 774-9000, ext. 4641, or dial 715-5111.
