Imported case of dengue confirmed in Cayman

CNS):  Public health officials have confirmed a local case of imported dengue fever by a returning resident. While outbreaks of the mosquito-borne disease persist across the region, there have been no locally transmitted dengue cases reported in the Cayman Islands so far this year. Last year saw a total of two confirmed cases, one of hwich was imported and a second had no travel history. Although the species of mosquito which commonly carries dengue fever is present in Cayman, the insects here do not carry the disease but officials are advising people to take precautions against being bitten.

“While dengue fever is not endemic to the Cayman Islands, as there is no sustained transmission of the disease, it is always wise to avoid mosquito bites by covering up during the late afternoon when the dengue carrier, the Aedes aegyptii mosquito, is at its peak,” said Dr Kiran Kumar, Medical Officer of Health.  “While we need to be alert, and take preventative measures, we need not be alarmed of one case. For Aedes mosquitoes to transmit dengue they must bite infected persons, otherwise they can’t become infectious and transmit the disease,” he added.

People who develop dengue symptoms within two to three weeks of having returned from countries with dengue are advised to consult their physician and explain their travel history

Dr Kumar reminded the public that they can help reduce the Aedes aegyptii population locally by clearing yards of containers that can hold water, as these are favourite breeding sites.

So far this year there have been over 1,500 confirmed dengue fever cases in the region, with 17 of 23 Caribbean countries reporting incidences of the disease. According to the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC) Surveillance Report, as of August 2012, Belize, Guyana, Suriname, Jamaica and Curacao account for approximately 87% of the cases reported in the region.

For more advice on mosquito control, contact MRCU on 949-2557 in Grand Cayman, or 948-2223 on Cayman Brac; and DEH on 949-6696 in Grand Cayman, or 948-2321 in Cayman Brac.

See fact sheet below.