The number of reported dengue cases has reached 33 in Mauritius and 48 in Rodrigues since June 19th. These alarming figures were disclosed by the Minister of Health, Kailesh Jagutpal at the National Assembly on Tuesday.
Responding to a question raised by Joanne Tour, the Member of Parliament for Constituency Number 4 (Port-Louis Nord/Montagne-Longue), Minister Jagutpal assured the Chamber that his ministry had swiftly responded to the outbreak by implementing a series of preventive measures aimed at curbing the spread of the disease.
These measures reportedly include increased surveillance at ports and airports, fumigation exercises, extensive contact tracing of patients and their close contacts, as well as massive nationwide cleaning and awareness campaigns.
A circular has also reportedly been issued to private doctors and clinics to enhance surveillance efforts.
About Dengue
The female tiger mosquito, responsible for transmitting dengue, typically attacks its prey early in the morning and late in the afternoon, before sunset. The first symptoms appear 4 to 7 days after the mosquito bites.
These symptoms include high fever, intense headaches (especially around the eyes), severe muscle and joint pain, rash resembling measles, nausea, vomiting, and nosebleeds.
Similar to other viral illnesses, there is no specific treatment for dengue. Symptomatic treatments are administered to alleviate symptoms, such as pain relief and reducing high fever. An ideal vaccine that covers all strains of the disease and is effective in all cases has not yet been developed.
Upon experiencing the first symptoms, it is strongly advised to consult a doctor. Health authorities also recommend that patients drink plenty of fluids and get adequate rest. However, the best course of action is to prevent contracting dengue altogether. This can be achieved by wearing clothing that covers the body as much as possible, such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
In order to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, health authorities urge citizens to exercise civic responsibility. They recommend emptying rooftops, gutters, flower pots, and plant containers of stagnant water. Other recommendations include clearing overgrown weeds, maintaining hedges, removing dead leaves, and clearing vacant land.
Sources: Defi Media, Le Mauricien
