JIC Release No. 12 - No New Confirmed Cases; Prevention is Key

JIC Release No. 12 - No New Confirmed Cases; Prevention is Key

No New Confirmed Cases; Prevention is Key

The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS), along with partner agencies, continue efforts to mitigate the spread of dengue virus on Guam.

No New Confirmed Cases
To date, there remain seven​ confirmed locally acquired cases of dengue fever. Recently, 10 suspect cases resulted in negative findings. DPHSS continues to receive suspect cases on a near daily basis as a result of the department’s enhanced surveillance and increased community outreach.

Prevention and Protection
As part of vector control efforts, DPHSS continues the gathering of mosquito traps in areas of surveillance.Preliminary screening tests have returned negative for the presence of dengue virus. Along with the Department of Public Works and the Mayors Council of Guam, cleanup efforts continue with the removal of minor debris to lessen mosquito breeding sites.

The community is reminded to do their part to minimize the spread of dengue virus. While pesticide spraying is done initially in areas identified as high-risk, it is only a temporary solution. Without removing breeding sites, mosquitoes can return. Pesticide spraying can also be ineffective if overused. Residents are urged to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites by applying EPA-Registered insect repellant and wearing light-colored long sleeved shirts and pants.

Reduce the number of new mosquitoes that carry dengue by eliminating the places they lay eggs. DPHSS mosquito surveillance suggests that Aedes albopictusis the mosquito species spreading dengue on Guam. Aedes albopictus lays its eggs in natural and artificial water holding containers, such as tree holes, coconuts, bromeliads, water barrels, trash, closed gutters, tarps, and tires. Generally,​ A. albopictus does not reproduce in large bodies of water, such as ponding basins and reservoirs.

Dengue Fever Symptoms
See your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms of dengue fever: fever, aches and pains, rash, mild bleeding usually around the nose or gums. Visit your nearest hospital emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms of severe dengue fever: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, significant bleeding, lethargy or restlessness.

For those without a primaryhealthcare provider,call the Northern Regional Community Health Center in Dededo at (671) 635-7400 or the Southern Regional Community Health Center in Inarajan at (671) 828-7157 to make an appointment. Walk-ins are accepted daily, Monday through Friday, beginning at 8 a.m.

For more information, visit https://ghs.guam.gov/,or contact the Joint Information Center Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (671) 478-0208/09/10. If there is an emergency, dial 911.

 
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