Jamaica on alert for a more severe form of dengue

Concern is being raised that Jamaica could record increased cases of a severe form of dengue fever.

Sherine Huntley Jones, director of the National Vector Control Programme, is warning that persons who have had dengue are more susceptible to the more severe type of the mosquito-borne virus, "and so because our population at large has been exposed to more than one type, going forward we are going to see an increase in the number of persons who are going to be hospitalised, and unfortunately... that may end up dying."

She told RJR News that more persons with dengue are being hospitalized and that there has already been an increase in dengue-related deaths.

In a recent update, the Ministry of Health said more than 5,400 cases of dengue had been reported in Jamaica so far this year.

Mrs. Huntley Jones said some persons took too long to seek medical attention.

She is therefore urging those who experience dengue-like symptoms to immediately seek medical attention.