By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews
In a follow-up on the dengue outbreak in Palau, the Palau Ministry of Health reported 26 new cases during the past week, bringing the outbreak total to 570 cases since Dec. 2018.
There have been two deaths attributed to dengue infection during this outbreak. There have been 160 serotyped cases of DENV-3. The last recorded cases of DENV-2 in Palau were from November of 2018.
There was a slight decrease in the number of cases reported in August compared to July. Although the majority of cases in August were residents of Koror state, there were a considerable number of cases from outlying states including Airai, Melekeok, Ngatpang and Ngaraard. There have been cases reported in 13 out of 16 states.
The Ministry of Health Dengue Response Team is focusing its efforts on increasing community participation in clean-up activities through partnership with state governments and other community organizations. Various activities during Preparedness Month will feature the 3S dengue prevention message. This year the Preparedness Parade and Fair will include a dengue prevention float and booth.
The Team continues to provide updates on the dengue outbreak to the community through a weekly radio spot at the national radio station, dissemination of print material about dengue prevention to the community and development of dengue prevention materials aimed at young residents.
The Communicable Disease Unit and the DEH Vector Control Program continue to investigate all reported cases of dengue fever and implement vector control measures.
The Palau Ministry of Health’s community dengue prevention 3S message:
• Search and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
• Self-protect by wearing insect repellent and ensuring a mosquito-free environment.
• Seek early consultation if you show severe signs or symptoms of dengue.
