Minister Nisbett Calls for Immediate Action
Charlestown, Nevis — With the number of Dengue fever cases on the rise, health authorities are urging residents to take the virus seriously and take action to prevent its spread. The Honourable Senator Jahnel Nisbett, Minister of Health in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), has issued a strong warning that Dengue fever poses a real threat to life and requires immediate community cooperation.
Senator Nisbett emphasized that the recent surge in Dengue cases is a matter of public health urgency. She reminded residents that the disease, though often underestimated, can have fatal consequences if left unchecked.
“I want to raise a critical issue that we are facing in our community right now, and that is the recent surge in Dengue fever cases,” she said. “Dengue fever is a serious illness. It’s imperative that we address this matter as soon as possible.”
She continued, “Often times you hear Dengue fever and it’s not taken quite as seriously as some of the other diseases, but Dengue fever can also be fatal. The disease can cause serious bleeding and a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can lead to shock or death.”
Understanding Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, a species common throughout the Federation. The illness can vary in severity, with symptoms that typically appear within a few days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Common Symptoms of Dengue Fever
- High fever
- Pain behind the eyes
- Severe joint and muscle pain
- Rash or skin irritation
- Headaches and general fatigue
In severe cases, the disease can progress to Dengue hemorrhagic fever, a potentially deadly condition that can cause internal bleeding and organ failure if untreated.
Premier Brantley Encourages Community Cooperation
Premier of Nevis, the Honourable Mark Brantley, echoed the Minister’s call for vigilance and urged residents to support the government’s efforts to curb the mosquito population. He noted that while the Ministry of Health has intensified its vector control measures, including fogging operations, the public must take an active role in eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
“The health professionals were very clear with us that the only way we are going to defeat the Aedes aegypti mosquito and defeat this Dengue threat is for each and every one of us to work together,” Premier Brantley said.
“We know mosquitos need stagnant water to breed, and we are asking persons to go around their homes and businesses and to empty any container that has stagnant water.”
Simple Steps to Prevent Dengue
- Empty containers that collect stagnant water such as buckets, flower pots, and discarded tires.
- Cover water tanks and barrels tightly.
- Keep drains clear of debris to prevent water buildup.
- Use mosquito repellents and wear long-sleeved clothing, especially at dusk and dawn.
- Cooperate with community fogging schedules.
Public Health Efforts Underway
As of November 23, health officials confirmed 57 cases of Dengue fever on Nevis, with most concentrated in the Constituency of St. John’s. The Ministry of Health continues its evening fogging campaigns but is using a targeted approach to protect beneficial insect populations such as bees.
The Ministry has also launched a public education campaign across news and social media platforms to raise awareness about prevention and early detection. Both Premier Brantley and Minister Nisbett emphasized that community involvement is key to halting the spread of the virus and protecting lives.
Residents are urged to remain alert, follow prevention guidelines, and seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms of Dengue fever.