As June 1 approaches, the impending hurricane season brings with it increased rains—and a heightened risk for dengue fever, according to Health Commissioner Julia Sheen.
According to a Health Department release issued Wednesday, standing water near homes can become a haven for mosquito breeding and place residents at risk of contacting dengue fever.
Transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, dengue fever is a virus whose symptoms include headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. More complicated cases of dengue fever can result in Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, which is characterized by high fever, bleeding and circulatory failure and in rare instances, may result in death.
During hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, 2010, Sheen said that residents can help their community and the Health Department stop the spread of dengue fever by doing basic things like:
• Keeping tires in a dry place
• Putting plants that are currently in water, into soil, and emptying flowerpot bases weekly
• Keeping barrels tightly sealed
• Covering or turning pet dishes and buckets that hold water upside down
• Placing a screen or mesh over the overflow pipe of cisterns
• Repairing or replacing damaged screens, and keeping windows and doors without screens closed
• Covering infant cribs with mosquito netting
• Using mosquito repellents containing DEET. Follow instructions carefully and use on arms, legs, ankles and nape of neck. Avoid applying repellent to eyes, lips or bruised skin and to children under 2 and to the hands of older children
Sheen is urging health care providers to be vigilant about reporting suspected cases. dengue fever is a reportable disease and all medical agencies, clinics and private physicians territory-wide are required to report any such cases to: Epidemiologist Dr. Eugene Tull via secure fax at 713-1508 or calling 713-1311, Ext. 3241.
To report large pools of stagnant water, contact the Environmental Health Division on St. Croix at (340) 773-1311, Ext. 3109 and on St. Thomas at (340) 774-9000, Ext. 4641 or dial 715-5111.
