Respiratory illness down, dengue cases up

The Ministry of Health and Wellness on Friday reported a recent drop in respiratory illness but said dengue cases continue to rise.

In its latest surveillance update up to epidemiological week 49, ending November 25, the ministry said while the cases of respiratory illnesses were falling and “few cases of COVID-19 and no cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as is circulating in North America, were seen,” the increased incidence of dengue fever continues.

It said there were 1 712 suspected and 277 PCR-confirmed cases as of epidemiological week 47.   

Dengue virus type 2 was the predominant virus identified. 

The current dengue outbreak began in October and intensified in November but there have been no related deaths, the ministry added.

It said: “The public is encouraged to continue with precautionary measures to protect themselves and their children from mosquito bites. These include using mosquito repellent; wearing light-coloured clothing and long-sleeved pants and shirts, especially during the dusk to dawn period; using insect screens at opened windows or doors; using mosquito nets over beds or cribs.

“Persons are also advised to seek out and remove containers with stagnant water from around their premises as they can become breeding sites. The Environmental Health Department of the Ministry of Health & Wellness should be notified of infestations of adult mosquitoes.”

As for respiratory illnesses, the health ministry advised that although there was a drop in cases, they should not let their guard down.

Barbadians have also been encouraged to continue good respiratory hygiene, including covering coughs and sneezes, and frequently washing or sanitising hands. 

“Vulnerable persons such as those with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) or asthma, as well as health care workers are encouraged to take the seasonal influenza vaccine,” the ministry added. (BT)