By NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

In a follow-up on the dengue fever situation in Guam, the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) tested and confirmed six additional cases of dengue infection. Five of the six are locally acquired cases and one of the six cases is suspected to be an imported case.

Aedes mosquito
Aedes aegypti image/CDC

To date, there are now seven confirmed cases of locally acquired dengue infection and three confirmed cases of imported dengue infection. With the enhanced surveillance and continued timely reporting by Guam healthcare providers, DPHSS expects additional cases of dengue to be detected.

“Although aggressive mosquito control efforts are ongoing, DPHSS anticipates the identification of other suspected and confirmed cases,” said Linda Unpingco-Denorcey, DPHSS Director. “We remind the community to assist with preventative measures at home and to protect themselves when they go outside. A community-wide response is needed in order to minimize the spread of the dengue virus.”

Prior to the first autochthonous dengue transmission earlier this month, it was such case on the island in 75 years.

The community can stop the spread of dengue virus by avoiding mosquito bites. Reduce the number of mosquitoes by eliminating mosquito breeding sites, which are primarily artificial containers that hold water where mosquitoes lay eggs.

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Health officials remind the public to see your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms of dengue fever:

  • fever
  • aches and pains
  • rash
  • mild bleeding usually around the nose or gums

Visit your nearest hospital emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms of severe dengue fever:

  • severe abdominal pain
  • persistent vomiting
  • bleeding
  • lethargy or restlessness