Health Ministry Responds to Dengue Surge in Region 6 with Over 4,000 Test Kits and Vector Control Campaign
By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
In response to the alarming surge in dengue fever cases in Region 6, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony on Wednesday confirmed that the Ministry has dispatched over 4,000 test kits to the region and is ramping up containment measures following the deaths of two children due to dengue-related complications.
Speaking on the sidelines of the launch of new mental health initiatives, Dr. Anthony explained that a three-member team, including the Chief Medical Officer, has been deployed to investigate the recent fatalities and oversee the Ministry’s proactive response strategy.
“Because of the cases that we have seen, we have increased testing and added a number of sites where testing can be done,” Dr. Anthony stated.
To curb mosquito breeding, the Ministry works closely with every Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) in Region 6. Each NDC has been equipped with fogging equipment, larvicide, and the necessary chemicals to reduce the mosquito population.
“We have teams visiting every home, identifying stagnant water and containers, and advising residents on how to reduce mosquito breeding grounds,” the Minister said.
In anticipation of rising hospitalizations, the Health Ministry has also bolstered resources at key medical institutions, including:
- New Amsterdam Hospital
- Skeldon Hospital
- Port Mourant Hospital
“If there’s an increase in hospitalization, these facilities are now better equipped to handle the influx,” Dr. Anthony assured.
Despite the current rise in infections, Minister Anthony noted that with coordinated intervention, the situation is expected to stabilize within a few days.
Last week, Region 6 recorded 332 dengue cases in April alone, adding to the over 10,000 cases recorded across Guyana in 2024 — making this one of the most concerning outbreaks in recent history.
Residents are reminded to:
- Use insect repellents and bed nets
- Keep surroundings free of stagnant water
- Report symptoms early (fever, headache, rash, joint pain)
Contact your local health center or hospital for testing or medical assistance in Region 6.
Stay safe, stay informed.
