TCI Ministry of Health Advice amidst Dengue Outbreak in the British Overseas Territory

Symptoms

• Mild symptoms of dengue can be confused with other illnesses that cause fever, aches and pains, or a rash.

• The most common symptom of dengue is fever (40°C/104°F) with any of the following:
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Rash
  • Severe headache
  • Aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain)
  • Any warning sign (see attachment)

Symptoms of dengue typically last 2–7 days.  Most people will recover after about a week.

There is no specific treatment for dengue.  If you suspect that you or your loved one has dengue, please see your healthcare provider so you can be tested and receive the necessary advice.  Avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen and aspirin.

Persons who are suspected to have dengue or have confirmed dengue should avoid further mosquito bites.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services continues to offer testing for dengue at no cost through the National Public Health Laboratory in partnership with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) as well as conducting vector control activities throughout the islands.  Further updates on the local dengue situation will be provided in due course.

To report any areas of standing water or mosquito breeding sites, please contact the Environmental Health Department for assistance on (649) 338 2143/2142.

For additional information, please visit the Health Promotion and Advocacy Units Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/tcihealthpromotions/.