(Trinidad Guardian) The Ministry of Health confirmed T&T’s fifth dengue-related death, and the victim is believed to be a 45-year-old quality control manager employed at WeldFab Limited.
Guardian Media understands that Marlon Asseveiro from St Mary’s Village, Moruga, passed away yesterday after ailing from dengue since last Wednesday. His relatives said he did not suffer from any other known illness. However, an autopsy still needs to be conducted on the father of five to determine the actual cause of death.
Speaking in the wake of this latest death, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh urged citizens to be proactive and ensure their surroundings are clean and free from breeding grounds.
“As we record our fifth laboratory-confirmed dengue-related death, I take the opportunity to inform the public that all state agencies continue to work collaboratively to reduce the mosquito population as far as possible. The public is reminded of the vital role to be played in clearing all possible sources where clean, clear, standing water exists in their homes and properties, which is where the mosquitoes can live and breathe. Let’s continue to work together to reduce the incidents of dengue.”
The ministry’s statement also confirmed 58 more dengue cases, which pushed the total to 450. The public was reminded that dengue fever is spread by an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, with symptoms appearing between five an six days of being bitten.
Symptoms can last between one and two weeks and may include fever, headaches (sometimes severe), pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, skin rash, nausea/vomiting and diarrhoea.
Further, the MoH urged those with signs or symptoms of dengue fever to seek immediate medical treatment at their doctor or nearest health facility.
Source reduction tips involve eliminating breeding sites for the Aedes species, such as:
1. Disposing of all unwanted articles, derelict vehicles or appliances in the yard or environments that can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.
2. Covering water containers such as tanks, barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito-proof covering.
3. Cutting down and removing all bushes or undergrowth that can harbour mosquitoes.
4. Cleaning drains and guttering to allow for the free flow of water.
5. Using mosquito nets and insect repellent when appropriate as personal protection.
On June 19, T&T recorded its first dengue-related death since 2017. The victim was 65-year-old Barrackpore resident Sieunarine Mahadeo. The second victim was a teenage girl from Fyzabad who passed away at the end of June. Sixteen-year-old Quinton Gabriel of Robert Hill, Siparia, became the third dengue-related death on July 16. The teen suffered from sickle cell disease and died at the Point Fortin Hospital.
The fourth patient’s name was Mark, and he was in his 30s. Despite the rising number of deaths and infections, authorities continue to insist there is no outbreak.
