Gov't takes steps to curtail malaria

The Ministry of Health is undertaking measures to curtail the onset of malaria following reports of two cases surfacing in Jamaica that were identified by local health authorities at the start of the year.

The National Public Health Laboratory confirmed one case on January 5, while the second, which was reported by a private laboratory on January 6, is awaiting the results of retesting on blood samples from persons coming into contact with that individual.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Winston De La Haye said the ministry was notified about both persons, one from St Catherine and the other from Montego Bay, who have been admitted to hospital.

"We have since increased the number of samples tested, in terms of contact. We sent 71 samples off for testing of individuals this person may have been in contact with ... (and) all 71 are negative for malaria," he informed.

FOGGING TO BE DONE

De La Haye also advised that detailed investigations and vector-control activities and searches for Anopheles mosquito-breeding sites carried out unearthed three locations near one of the patient's home.

Consequently, he said, fogging will be conducted in the vicinity of both persons' homes over the next several weeks.

The ministry urges persons to exercise caution when travelling to regions overseas where malaria is prevalent.

Persons are advised to take anti-malarial drugs before departing, during their visit, and one month after returning. Additionally, they should consult a physician or visit a health centre before travelling and if symptoms occur after returning.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.

Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, profuse sweating, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.

- JIS

Malaria probe

- Officials visited 179 households

- At least 156 persons were interviewed

- Thirty-one blood samples taken for testing