Sample Tests Negative for Mosquito-borne Viral Illnesses

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Marion Bullock DuCasse says the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has reported that the sample which was sent by the Ministry and received by them on Monday (September 28, 2015) tested negative for chikungunya, dengue and zika viruses.

She says however that the Ministry will continue to intensify its Integrated Vector Management Programme given that this is the period where there is usually an increase in mosquito borne illnesses.

“While the Ministry will continue to undertake interventions such as fogging, household visits and public education, we ask that individuals check their homes, schools churches and businesses and ensure that they destroy mosquito breeding sites and protect themselves from mosquito bites,” Dr. DuCasse said.

She added that “chikungunya, dengue and zika viruses are spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito which is almost always found in and around areas where people live, work and play. Persons therefore have a very great responsibility to reduce mosquito breeding and by doing so will also reduce the spread of these diseases.”

The Aedes aegypti mosquito breeds in water that settles in containers around homes, schools, churches, workplaces and playgrounds. Persons are urged to search for and destroy mosquito breeding sites in and around their homes, workplaces and communities by getting rid of old tyres and containers in which water can settle, punching holes in tins before disposing, and covering large drums, barrels and tanks holding water.

Individuals who wish to obtain more information on chikungunya, dengue and zika viruses may call the Ministry of Health or the nearest health centre. Persons may also visit our website at moh.gov.jm and like and follow us on www.facebook.com/themohgovjm; https://twitter.com/themohgovjm; https://instagram.com/themohgovjm