Officials Warn About Dengue Fever and Share Tips for Peak of Hurricane Season

Monday’s weekly Government House media briefing featured tips and advice from officials regarding the territory’s dengue outbreak and the peak of hurricane season, which is usually in September.

Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach led the press conference and introduced Daryl Jaschen, executive director of the V.I. Emergency Territorial Management Agency and Dr. Tai Hunte-Ceasar, territorial chief medical officer at the V.I. Department of Health.

Dr. Hunte-Ceasar announced there are 89 cases of dengue fever reported in the Virgin Islands. St. Thomas has 67, there are 21 on St. John, and only one was reported for St. Croix. Since people don’t always report dengue or seek care, there are likely more cases, she added. Using insect repellant and clothing to cover arms and legs will help deter the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, as will window screens and removing standing water outside.

“The most common symptoms of dengue include fever, headaches, pain behind the eyes, muscle, joint or bone pain, nausea, vomiting and/or rash,” she said. “If you are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to see your doctor to get tested to see if you have dengue or another illness.”