The Health Ministry is reporting an additional confirmed Dengue fatality.

There are now five laboratory confirmed deaths and 450 laboratory confirmed cases of the illness.

Dengue Fever may be spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, with symptoms appearing within 5-6 days of being bitten.

These last for 1-2 weeks and can include:

• Fever
• Headaches (sometimes severe)
• Pain behind eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Skin rash
• Nausea / Vomiting
• Diarrhoea

Anyone showing signs or symptoms of Dengue Fever should seek immediate medical treatment.

The Health Ministry adds that the best way to reduce the incidence of mosquito borne diseases is through the elimination of the breeding sites for the Aedes species mosquito.

The public is urged to:

Dispose of all unwanted articles, derelict vehicles or appliances in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.

• Cover water containers such as tanks, barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.
• Cut down and remove all bush or undergrowth that can harbour mosquitoes.
• Clean drains and guttering to allow for the free flow of water.
• Use mosquito nets and insect repellent, when appropriate as a means of personal protection.