Meetings planned with physicians, health care providers and the public

on the topics of vaccinations, dengue and mosquito control

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour has collaborated with the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment and the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport to organize a meeting with family physicians, health care providers for Wednesday, November 6 and a public meeting for Thursday, November 7 with respect to vaccinations, dengue and mosquito control.

 

The session with physicians and health care providers will take place at the University of St. Martin on Wednesday, November 6 from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

The public meeting for interested persons will also take place at the same venue on Thursday, November 7 from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. The session will give the public an opportunity to obtain information from the experts, ask questions and express their concerns during the meeting.

Dengue Fever is transmitted by the female vector Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito is distinguished by its markings. The body of the mosquito has alternate black and white horizontal stripes. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito lays her eggs in clear (clean) stagnant water. Within eight days the mosquito can complete its life cycle from egg, to larvae to pupae and to adult mosquito.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, ‘Get Checked" campaign, is in line with working closely with various stakeholders as well as the community to eliminate the threat of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, and mosquito breeding areas.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito and about potential breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email surveillance@sintmaartengov.org