Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer
This pile of used tyres off Waltham Park Road in St. Andrew, is a potential breeding site for the mosquitoes that spread the potentially deadly malaria disease.

The Ministry of Health has appealed to persons in malaria affected areas, who have been identified as having fever and other malaria symptoms, to visit the nearest health centre this weekend for treatment.

The appeal comes as the number of malaria cases has risen to 77.

"It is extremely important that persons with suspected malaria receive treatment as soon as possible," said Dr. Marion Bullock-DuCasse, director of emergency services in the Health Ministry.

In addition Dr. Bullock-DuCasse said persons who have already received treatment only need to report to health centres if the fever and symptoms have returned.

Get full treatment

Persons receiving treatment are also encouraged to take the full course for three days as they could become ill if they discontinue. Those who were hospitalised are also encouraged to return to the hospital for their seven day checkup.

The Ministry of Health reported yesterday that a further 300 malaria smears would be sent to the Center for Disease Control in the United States, to be tested. This is in addition to 374 smears which were sent there on Wednesday. Of the 123 results that have been received so far, six were confirmed cases of malaria.

Dr. Sheila Campbell-Forrester, chief medical officer in the Ministry of Health, said this was in keeping with the five per cent positive trend that has been seen since the outbreak began.

She also noted that the six new cases had links to the identified communities, which suggests that the outbreak is still confined to the initial areas of Denham Town, Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town and Delacree Park.

Dr. Bullock-DuCasse has reiterated that all mass gatherings in affected areas should be suspended until further notice, noting that the situation will be reviewed next week.

Persons residing in or visiting these communities are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from infection.

These measures are: