St. George’s, Grenada, August 16th 2010: An epidemic of Dengue has been acknowledged in some Caribbean countries and many countries have taken steps to inform their citizens of the existing situation and provide detailed education about preventive measures.

Approximately three weeks ago the Government reported one confirmed case of Dengue and informed the Grenadian public that there was no need for concern. Since then several persons have been to physicians with typical Dengue-like symptoms and many have become very ill.

The NNP is concerned about the lack of detailed public education and guidance on dengue, given the fact that this disease can be deadly. There are several measures which can be taken by the public which have little or no financial implications for Government and the NNP does not understand the apparent reluctance to address this issue.

Additionally, there has been no aggressive effort by the Ministry of Health to combat the Aedes Aegypti mosquito in Grenada. The recent efforts at fogging have been isolated, leaving many critical areas unattended. The workers are being told that there is no money for overtime.

The NNP encourages households and communities to keep their surroundings clean and ensure that there is no stagnant water in containers. Individuals are advised to keep as much of their body covered (as is comfortable) during daylight hours as the Aedes Aegypti mosquito is a day biting mosquito.

If possible individuals should use appropriate strength mosquito repellants on exposed skin of children and adults three times during the day and  periodically spray their houses (especially the dark areas) in a safe manner with insecticide. Dengue is a real threat to life in our region and in Grenada. NNP calls on Government to take up its responsibility and help protect the health of our people from this serious public health problem