Trinidad and Tobago Reports Fifth Dengue Death Amid Rising Cases

Trinidad and Tobago: The Ministry of Health reported that there has been another death from dengue fever, the fifth for this year. Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh made the disclosure regarding the most recent case in a voice note released by the ministry.

In its July 2024 epidemiological update, the Ministry reported 450 laboratory confirmed cases of dengue fever and five confirmed deaths. The Minister assured that the government has been taking continuous action to control the vector, the mosquito population that spreads the disease.

“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,” he said.

Deyalsingh made the point that it was crucial for the public to do their part in stopping the spread of dengue by ridding the environment of sources of still water, which are mosquito breeding grounds. “Let’s work together as one to decrease the incidence of dengue,” he urged and added that it would take whole of society’s action.

The update on July 20 reported four past deaths. The first victim was 65-year-old Sieunarine Mahadeo, of Barrackpore, who died on June 19. Of the two deaths which followed, one was a teenager whose identity was not disclosed.

Sixteen-year-old Quinton Gabriel, of Siparia, was the third victim. He was suffering from sickle cell disease and died at Point Fortin Hospital a day after his admission. The fourth and fifth deaths were not elaborated on by the Ministry.

These deaths show how there is a need for continued vigilance and the need for the public to carry out the measure of controlling mosquitoes. The Ministry appealed for members of the public to undertake this activity with empathy and clear all potential mosquito breeding sites on their premises, especially areas having clean, clear standing water.

This way, the proactive measure will work effectively in preventing more cases and fatalities from dengue fever.

The Ministry of Health shall continue to brief on the developments in this situation and work to mitigate the impact of dengue fever on the country. This will involve efforts and cooperation with state agencies and the public in the collective response to this health challenge.