Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Johanne Prosper
Published on 2024-03-01 04:30:05
In the face of the increase in dengue cases in the country, with the number of active cases recorded last week, not to mention the weather conditions are conducive to the proliferation of mosquitoes, many are wondering if the authorities are losing control of the situation despite all their efforts. Should we be worried? Is the epidemic at risk of turning into an endemic?
Consultant in endocrinology, diabetology, and internal medicine, Dr. Iswaraj Ramracheya sees a real threat to the country as the number of cases is increasing in a short period of time and in more extensive regions. The situation is “quite concerning because the number of cases, within a period of 2 months, is already nearly 4 times the number of cases reported annually. This leads him to say that this unexpected growth in the number of cases suggests “a real potential for progression towards an epidemic outbreak.” He points out that the situation can be managed if the transmission of the disease is stopped by controlling the mosquito populations. He talks about the existence of two types of vaccines against dengue and an innovative method involving infected mosquitoes to prevent the virus from spreading.
For Dr. Vasant Bunwaree, a cardiologist and former minister, while there is no need to worry, vigilance is essential. He says the fight must be directed against both larvae through larvicides and adult mosquitoes through insecticides. “There must also be a threshold of vigilance, and whenever a hotspot appears, the necessary measures must be taken at the individual, family, and collective levels,” he recommends. The doctor suggests considering vaccination, especially in cases where there has been a previous infection and if one lives in high-risk contamination areas. He recommends facilitating early detection and providing easy access to healthcare centers.
Gérard Paya, a tourism consultant, believes that the epidemic currently has no real impact on tourism. “It’s not alarming,” he says, supporting that the authorities, in general, have taken decisive action. “Hotels are well organized and do everything necessary to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds through fumigation. Hoteliers are always one step ahead in addition to the work of the authorities. We must be optimistic. I believe that dengue can be controlled in Mauritius.” He adds that Mauritians must also assume their responsibilities. The only thing missing, “is that there should have been an awareness campaign in schools to explain to young people what it is.”
Dengue is a disease transmitted by mosquito bites, but about 8 out of 10 infected patients will not show any symptoms or be unaware that they have the disease. Most patients will have mild symptoms, and less than 1 in 20 will have a severe form of the disease with a risk of bleeding. Simple preventive measures will reduce the risk of disease spread, and maintaining a clean environment will stop the disease from proliferating.
In conclusion, awareness, knowledge, and prevention are key to combating the spread of dengue in Mauritius. Vigilance, early detection, and coordinated efforts at individual, family, and community levels are essential to curbing the epidemic. It is clear that continued vigilance and proactive measures are crucial in preventing dengue from becoming an endemic issue in the country.
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
