The Dengue Fever is a virus transmitted by the female Aedes Aegypti mosquito which breeds in man-made containers. Residents put themselves at risk if old tires, plant containers, empty drums and even food containers for animals are around the homes where water can collect and provide a breeding ground for the mosquitoes.

The virus transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito causes Dengue Fever. Symptoms include high fever, rashes, severe headache and joint and muscle pain. Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite are also common. Dengue symptoms are often confused with the flu which has the same symptoms. However, the difference with the flu is a rash and pain behind the eyes or retro-orbital pain.

There is no cure for Dengue. Individuals who think they are infected with Dengue should see a physician immediately.

Children and seniors are at higher risk for the disease, symptoms of which include severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, high fever and loss of appetite in uncomplicated cases. A rash may also appear three to four days after the fever begins. Complicated cases of Dengue Fever can result in Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever which is characterized by high fever, bleeding and circulatory failure and in rare instances, may result in death. See a physician immediately if you suspect you have Dengue and make sure that your doctor reports it to the Department of Health.

Under Virgin Islands law, Dengue Fever is a reportable disease and this means that physicians who suspect Dengue Fever in patients MUST report it to the Health Department. Reports should be made via confidential fax to (340) 718-1508 via the V.I. Notifiable Disease Form, which all physicians have. The reports are essential for monitoring purposes and alerting the public so that incidents do not become widespread.

Heavy rains bring with it the added risk of contracting Dengue Fever. Old tires, plant containers, toys, pet dishes and empty drums around homes where water can collect provide breeding havens for mosquitoes. These containers should be emptied as frequently as possible.

Residents should also protect themselves by repairing or replacing damaged screens or keep windows and doors without screens closed and for very large puddles of water around the home, call the Environmental Health Division at 773-1311, Ext. 3109 or 715-5111.

Spraying outside for mosquitoes has no impact on the spread of Dengue as the mosquitoes that cause Dengue live in houses, close to humans, their source of protein. Thus, residents should spray dark areas such as closets to kill off these mosquitoes and follow these tips.