Cayman keeps dengue and chikungunya at bay

Cayman Islands Hospital, George Town

(CNS): Public Health Department officials have confirmed that there have been no new locally transmitted cases of either chikungunya or dengue fever reported to the authorities since the start of 2015. Although health officials remain on alert, it appears that Cayman has managed to escape the regional epidemics. Meanwhile, as the PHD waits on details regarding a suspected case of meningitis, it said vaccines are available for overseas students living in dorms or those visiting countries where the disease is common.

As last year’s regional epidemic of chikungunya subsides, health officials said on Friday in a local update that although some suspect samples from patients have been sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), none have been reported as positive for either dengue or chikungunya. Seven results are pending, one of which was reported as a possible case in 2014.

Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr Samuel Williams, said the local PHD surveillance team remains on high alert regarding the mosquito transmitted diseases. There was no update regarding the adult patient suspected of having meningitis but the meningococcal vaccine MPSV4 is available to students attending school overseas, especially those who reside in dormitories, as well as travellers to countries in which meningitis is endemic.

Officials said those required to have the vaccine can contact the department for an appointment on 244-2648.