Petrina Francis, Staff ReporterThe Ministry of Health has reported that it is seeing between one and 11 new cases of malaria each week, bringing to 326 the number of cases found since the first four cases were identified last December.
As such, the Ministry has appealed to persons, especially in the affected areas of Denham Town, Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town and Delacree Park to be cautious, in light of the recent rains that the country has been experiencing.
According to Dr. Sheila Campbell-Forrester, acting chief medical officer for Jamaica, the rains could cause more eggs to hatch, which would result in the breeding of more mosquitoes.
"The outbreak is not over until it is over," Dr. Campbell-Forrester said.
Health desks
Meanwhile, Dr. Campbell-Forrester said the health desks at the airports, which were established for the ICC Cricket World Cup have been functioning effectively.
The desks, which are manned by public health nurses, with a doctor on call, form part of the Health Ministry's efforts to step up surveillance of malaria and other communicable diseases during the staging of the event.
She noted that passengers are given health alert cards and the Health Ministry is working closely with customs and immigration officials.
Dr. Campbell-Forrester also noted that the ban on mass gatherings in the affected areas is still in force.
Malaria is a life-threatening disease which is caused by a parasite transmitted by the female Anopheles mosquito.
Signs and symptoms of malaria
Fever (ongoing or on and off)
Sweating
Chills
Headaches
Weakness
Vomiting
The Ministry of Health has advised residents of affected communities to:
Avoid or limit outdoor activities between nightfall and dawn.
Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks outdoors between nightfall and dawn.
Avoid wearing dark clothes at nights.
Use an insect repellent, containing the chemical DEET, on exposed skin.
Close windows before dark, and keep them closed throughout the night.
Sleep under mosquito net.
petrina.francis@gleanerjm.com
