(Oranjestad)—In the month of April and May 2023, Latin American countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru and islands in the Caribbean like Puerto Rico and Guadeloupe, has reported a drastic increase in the number of Dengue Fever cases in their country. This ongoing situation has the Department of Public Health of Aruba (DVG) on high alert and preparation, considering the influx of tourists from different regions that the island receives daily. This is why it is also important for you to take precautions.
Currently, Aruba’s index of mosquitoes carrying the Dengue disease is relatively low because of the lack of rain. Despite this, personnel from the DVG sect specializing in dengue (GKMB) still encounter mosquito habitats within the community. These are found, for example, plant saucers, and empty buckets with rain or AC water. Since the rain season on Aruba stretches from June to December, it is highly recommended for both locals and tourist to mitigate the breeding of these insects and avoid any places where mosquito habitats may be prevalent. If we don’t take care, we may soon also experience a drastic surge of Dengue Fever on the island.
In the first five month of 2023, the DVG sect of Epidemiology and Research has received a total of 24 reports of possible Dengue cases. Of these 24 reports, ten cases were confirmed as Dengue Fever.
Not only is it important to avoid contracting Dengue Fever, but it is also important to realize what symptoms may appear in the case that you are infected. These symptoms include:
- High Fever
- Headache
- Stomach pain and nausea
- Joint and muscle pain
- Eye pain
- Skin rash
The Department of Public Health is asking all locals and visitors that present with high fever and two or more of the symptoms mentioned to contact their doctor—or for visitors, you can receive care at Urgent Care Aruba, located at Noord.
For more information, please visit the website of the Department of Public Health Aruba at www.dvg.aw, or call at +297 5224200, or send an e-mail at servicio@dvg.aw
