Transmission
The disease is carried by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes.

Symptoms
Dengue fever occurs in one of two forms. The mild form produces:
• A fever of 40˚ C or higher
• Headache
• Muscle, bone, and joint pain
• Nausea
• Pain behind the eyes
• Rash
• Swollen glands
• Vomiting

Its more severe form, called Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever, can also cause haemorrhaging, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and death.

Prevention
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has provided information to help Jamaicans combat the disease and limit the spread of Dengue Fever. Some tips are:
• Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET on skin and clothing
• Sleep under a mosquito net
• Get treatment promptly when symptoms appear to prevent progression of the disease
• Keep stored water covered
• Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (mainly still water and tall grass) around dwellings
• Close windows before nightfall
• Open windows during fogging

The post Dengue Fever Alert appeared first on CSMSJ.