After four-month rage, dengue appears ‘on the wane’

Dengue fever appears to be tapering off after rampaging here since October as health authorities report more than 3,000 suspected cases of the mosquito-borne illness.

The figures have prompted Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Arthur Phillips to urge Barbadians to continue to take necessary precautions in light of the rising numbers.

Dr Phillips told Barbados TODAY: “Since the declaration of a Dengue Fever outbreak in October 2023, there have been in excess of 3,587 suspected cases of the disease, with two (2) confirmed deaths thus far. While the weekly number of cases continues to be high, there has been a fall in the levels over the last three to four weeks.

“Dengue fever causes headache, fever, pain behind the eyes, sensitivity to light, joint pains, and muscle pains. Less commonly, nausea, vomiting and dizziness may also occur. Please seek medical attention urgently should there be any abnormal bleeding (from gums, nose etc.), red spots to the skin, abdominal pain with or without vomiting, confusion, excessive drowsiness or irritability.”

Breathing ailments remained high despite a slight reduction in the rate of reported cases, he added.

“Higher numbers of respiratory cases are still being seen,” said Dr Phillips. “However, so far this year, there is somewhat of a drop in the levels. While cases in younger persons (less than five years) are declining towards normal background levels, cases in older individuals are still significantly elevated.”

He reminded people to cough in their elbows and use and discard tissues appropriately instead of using washcloths. They should get adequate rest and fluids — “water, some broth or fruit juice”.

The medical officer said Vitamin C-rich foods, including citrus, and “getting a bit of sunlight (Vitamin D) may be beneficial”.

He also advises people with runny noses or eyes, coughing and sneezing “not to prepare or handle food for sale”.

“Excessive drowsiness, irritability or difficulty breathing” requires urgent medical attention, he added.

shamarblunt@barbadostoday.bb