13 Mar 2018

American Samoa warned to be vigilant about dengue

2:30 pm on 13 March 2018

The American Samoa Department of Health is reminding residents the territory is still in the midst of a dengue fever outbreak and they must take precautions.

no caption

Photo: lamyai/123RF

Epidemiologist, Aifili John Tufa, has dispelled reports that there have been cases of chikungunya since Cyclone Gita swept through the territory.

But he said dengue fever was still spreading and while the focus was on the recovery from Gita, people shouldn't drop their guard against dengue.

Dr Tufa said the following were the symptoms of dengue:

"You'll experience fever, headaches, joint pain, you might feel tired and things like that. Some times if it gets really bad you'll feel stomach pains, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting.

"And if you've gone for three days with these symptoms it hasn't subsided in three days we recommend going to the hospital."

The American Samoa Department of Health guidelines for control of mosquito breeding sites.

1. Drain all unnecessary water around the house.

2. Dress right. Wear long sleeves and long pants while out doing yard work.

3. Use mosquito repellent containing Deet.

4. Discuss with family member that dengue is back, and how to prevent getting dengue.