Dengue fever outbreak in Tobago

The officials told members of the media that 47 persons had tested positive for the virus so far this year, but there were no deaths to date.

They indicated that there was now a resurgence of the number of persons testing positive for dengue fever despite a significant decline from February to May.

According to statistics, the month of July so far accounts for 13 of the cases — three less than the highest figure of 16 recorded in January. The community of Charlotteville in east Tobago recorded the highest number of cases for July, which stood at three.

Officials indicated that the figures represented those clients who tested positive for IGM or IGG, or both by Rapid test for dengue from the Scarborough Regional Hospital laboratory.

The samples were sent to the Trinidad Public Health Lab for further testing to determine whether these persons had contracted dengue fever, however, reports from the THPL have not yet been received.

Secretary for the Division of Health and Social Services in the THA, Albert Pilgrim, said that the division has since intensified its detection, eradication, fogging and spraying exercise in keeping with protocols upon the approach of the wet season to minimise the risk of infection.

According to the officials, the dengue index rate has since moved from the 30s to between 3 and 5 in most areas at present. This, it said, was largely due to its Water Barrel/Water Tank Exchange Programme which encouraged the replacement of water barrels with water tanks.

Fifty percent of the cost was reportedly borne by the community while the Division bore the other half.

Pilgrim said that he was confident that his team of professionals — at all levels — would be able to effectively handle the situation.

“While there is no known cause for dengue, we have a ready supply of test kits in order to give preliminary diagnosis and begin the regiment of treatment as prescribed. It is important, however, to emphasise that we are here to help you in the fight against this disease, but we need you, the citizens to understand and take responsibility for the cleanliness of your own environment. We are partners with you in a winnable war.” Pilgrim said in a message to the public.