Dengue viruses are spread to people through the bite of an infected Aedes species (Ae. aegypti or Ae. albopictus) mosquito. Photo: Internet Source

The Virgin Islands now has close to 60 confirmed cases of dengue, Chief Environmental Health Officer (CEHO) Mr E. Lionel Michael is reporting. Photo: Facebook/File

Mr Michael said in an interview on Wednesday, October 7, 2020, that: “We have an increase in mosquito infestation, especially the ones that transmit dengue.”

According to the CEHO, these dengue cases are mostly seen on Tortola, and the Aedes aegypti, which are the dengue-carrying mosquitoes, are primarily concentrated in the eastern part of the island.

He continued: “But the cases are not concentrated in one area, they tend to be sporadic.”

Dengue symptoms typically begin three to 14 days after infection and include high fever, headache, vomiting, skin rash, and muscle and joint aches and pains.

Fogging 

In the meantime, fogging operations will begin this week to assist in the reduction of the mosquito population.

A government release said the Environmental Health Division’s Vector Teams would begin fogging operations this week.

Some of the targeted areas are East End, Greenland, Purcell Estate, Long Bush, Lower Estate and Sea Cows Bay.

The release said: “Fogging will take place from 4:30pm to 7:00pm on scheduled days until all areas are completed. Residents will be advised when fogging will be conducted in the morning and any cancellation if there is rain or extremely high winds. Persons with respiratory illnesses, particularly asthmatics, are advised to leave the areas being fogged for at least an hour as it can cause discomfort.

"The public is also reminded that fogging will provide only temporary relief from the mosquitoes as householders and property owners are to remain vigilant in preventing mosquitoes from breeding in stagnant water around their homes and businesses by conducting weekly inspections.”