š¦ Dengue outbreak in the Cayman Islands escalates
š“ Public health officials report 18 confirmed cases, half of which were locally infected
Public health officials in the Cayman Islands have reported a rising number of dengue cases due to a regional outbreak. As of November 7, there have been 18 laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue. Half of these cases were imported, with patients having a recent travel history, while the other half were locally infected. Since the start of the year, 97 cases have been investigated, largely due to an outbreak in Jamaica.š
Dr Nick Gent, Chief Medical Officer, stated that the ongoing dengue outbreak in the region continues to be a major concern for the Cayman Islands. He urged residents to take necessary precautions, especially as the holiday season approaches and people prepare to travel. This includes familiarising themselves with the dengue situation at their travel destination. The Jamaican Ministry of Health & Wellness confirmed that the country has recorded 2763 suspected, presumed and confirmed cases of dengue as of November 1, with 694 confirmed cases.š„
Most people recover from dengue without complications, using pain relievers and bed rest. The infectious period lasts for one week once a patient has developed a fever. Residents are encouraged to use mosquito repellent, wear light long sleeve shirts and pants to prevent bites, and regularly empty and clean items that hold water to prevent mosquito breeding. For more information, residents can contact the Public Health Department, the Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU), or the Department of Environmental Health (DEH).š
