Westmoreland residents diligently undertaking dengue fever precautions

Residents of Westmoreland have been demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility in the fight against the spread of dengue fever in the parish.

Several persons told JIS News that they have been adopting a range of measures to protect themselves and their families from the mosquito-borne illness.

These include using repellents and keeping their environment clean to prevent the breeding of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which transmits the virus.

Resident, Carmen Powell, said she has been vigilant in safeguarding her home by practising proper garbage disposal and wearing long sleeve clothing, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most likely to be active.

“I have been removing the old tins and punching holes [in them]. When evening comes, I make sure that the [house] is closed up. I do the many things I need to do to protect myself, like wear the garments that you are supposed to wear, long sleeves in the night hours, and all of that,” she indicated.

Powell further informed that she collates information from various sources, including media outlets and public health workers she encounters, to ensure she stays well-informed about the mosquito-borne illness.

Another Westmoreland native, Kareen Moosie, who is a United States-registered nurse, shared that her medical background has served to heighten her awareness of the dangerous nature of dengue fever, especially its impact on blood platelet levels.

Consequently, Moosie said she constantly encourages her family and community members to use repellent and maintain clean environments to eliminate existing and potential mosquito breeding sites.

Errol Spence, who resides in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, underscored his commitment to preventing the spread of diseases in the community and offering assistance to others.

“I try personally to prevent myself and family from [contracting] any form of disease that may come to the community where I am living; and if I go on the street and see that persons need help, I will suggest to the people what to do to protect themselves also,” he told JIS News.

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