Dengue cases near 2010 levels

Jerome Reynolds, Gleaner Writer

Data from the Ministry of Health indicates that Jamaica is moving closer to equaling the number of dengue cases recorded during the 2010 outbreak.

The figures show that up to November 3, the ministry recorded 3,117 suspected cases of dengue fever.

This is 85 cases fewer than those recorded during the outbreak two years ago.

With sections of the island receiving increased rainfall, it is suspected that this will cause more mosquito breeding sites which could lead to more cases.

In a release today, Director of Emergency, Disaster Management and Special Services, Dr Marion Bullock DuCasse, again urged Jamaicans to play a more active role in identifying and destroying mosquito breeding sites.

She notes that mosquitoes are generally found in and around places where people live.

Bullock DuCasse says that is why it is important for householders, schools, businesses and places of worship to be more vigilant.

She is encouraging Jamaicans to spend at least ten minutes per week to search for and destroy mosquito breeding sites.

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