The Ministry of Health is urging the public to visit their health care provider if they have symptoms of dengue fever. These include: headache, pain behind the eyes, joint or bone pain, muscle pain, skin rash, and nausea. Aspirin or aspirin containing medications should not be taken if these symptoms occur. Paracetamol is recommended for the relief of fever and pain.

Persons are also advised to visit a hospital immediately if they have symptoms of the more dangerous form of the viral illness, dengue haemorrhagic fever. It is usually associated with the same symptoms of dengue fever in addition to skin bruising, bleeding from the nose, mouth or gums, severe and continuous stomach pains, pale, cold and clammy skin, difficulty breathing, fainting and frequent vomiting.

To date, one hundred and twenty three (123) persons have been laboratory confirmed with dengue fever and nine (9) with dengue haemorrhagic fever. One (1) death has been confirmed.

Persons who wish to obtain more information on dengue may call the Ministry’s Emergency Operations Centre at 1888-663-5683 (1888 ONE LOVE).

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Contact: MOH, Public Relations Unit Tel: 967-1561