33 cases of dengue in Oman this year

(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Muscat- A dengue fever scare has hit Muscat after three persons were confirmed to have contracted the virus in Oman. While the vector-borne illness is not new to Oman, most of the cases previously were imported - patients were bitten elsewhere and displayed signs of the illness on returning.

Speaking toMuscat Daily , Dr Said al Mukhaini, head, Malaria Epidemiology and Vector-borne diseases section, in the Ministry of Health (MoH) said that 33 dengue cases were reported this year. 'Of 33 cases, 30 were imported. Three contracted the virus locally and because of this, we have to be more concerned.'

Dr Mukhaini said this is the first time that such a case has been reported in Muscat [in Seeb] and MoH has stepped up surveillance to tackle any potential surge in cases.

'Our team is investigating. A survey is being conducted through random visit of houses in Seeb. We are implementing preventive measures to control the spread. So, we seek cooperation from public in this regard.'

Aedes aegypti is a mosquito that can spread dengue fever. People infected have mild or no symptoms.

Symptoms of dengue may be confused with other illnesses that cause fever and flu-like illness. 'Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain and a rash.'

Dengue may not be endemic to Oman but its spread can be checked by preventing accumulation of stagnant water.

'We call upon the public to be careful and avoid leaving swimming pool water unchanged for days.

'Also, there is a need to change drinking water left for animals and birds outside on a regular basis to avoid such insects from breeding there. Those who use used tyres for decoration or gardening should ensure they are dry as they can be breeding place for insects,' Dr Mukhaini said.

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