CHCC confirms travel-related dengue case

The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. has confirmed a travel-related dengue case on Rota. The patient, who recently returned from traveling outside the CNMI, arrived on Rota with symptoms consistent with dengue. Specimens were collected and sent to a Guam laboratory for testing confirmation. CHCC is actively investigating the situation and have implemented prevention and mitigation efforts since the discovery date.

As a precautionary measure, CHCC’s Environmental Health & Disease Prevention team has conducted thorough inspections to identify and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites to prevent further transmission. The patient’s residence is being closely monitored, and the team is working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. CHCC assures the public that proactive measures are being taken to address and mitigate any potential risk.

Dengue is a viral disease mainly spread to people by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Human-to-human transmission is rare.

Symptoms of dengue typically may be mild or severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches. Symptoms usually begin within two weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito, and typically last two to seven days. Most people will recover after about a week.

There is no specific medicine to treat dengue. U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention recommends to rest as much as possible and take acetaminophen to control fever and relieve pain, but avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or drinks with added electrolytes. For mild symptoms, you can care for a sick infant, child, or family member at home.

Anyone who travels to an area with dengue is at risk for infection. The CDC advises travelers to practice usual precautions when traveling to areas of dengue risk. Travelers returning from an area with risk of dengue should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks, and if symptoms of dengue develop within two weeks upon return, should see medical evaluation.

According to the CDC, dengue is a common disease globally with outbreaks reported in regions such as the Caribbean, Central and South Americas, Southeast Asia, and Pacific Islands.

The community is urged to remain vigilant and take preventative measures like eliminating mosquito breeding sites. You can do this by:

Cleaning up of all debris, especially those that can hold water.

Disposing loose tires.

Cleaning pet water dishes regularly.

Cleaning, emptying, and properly screening or covering containers used to store water.

Clearing roof gutters of debris.

Properly disposing of all bottles, cans, buckets, and other containers that can collect water.

Plugging tree holes.

Repairing leaky outdoor faucets so not to create standing water.

Changing the water frequently in flower vases and other containers that routinely contain water, including pet dishes.

It is also advised to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing during outdoor activities as mosquitos are attracted to dark colors. When practical, wear long-sleeves and pants when going outdoors. Proper application of mosquito repellents that contain 20% to 30% DEET as the active ingredient on exposed skin and clothing decreases the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.

For more information about dengue, symptoms and treatment of dengue, and more please visit www.cdc.com. To contact the EHDP office, call (670) 236-22022/27/28 or email john.tagabuel@chcc.health. (PR)