A second case of dengue fever on Guam has been reported by the Department of Public Health and Social Services.
Like the first case of the year, which was reported in September, the individual is believed to have been infected elsewhere before traveling to Guam.
Dengue is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito and can’t be spread directly from person to person. However, Guam has mosquitoes that can spread the virus by biting an infected person.
A person infected with dengue will have a fever for two to seven days, and during this time, the person can infect mosquitoes with the virus.
People with dengue should remain indoors during this time to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and spreading the virus.
In addition to fever, symptoms of dengue include rash, aches and pains and mild bleeding around the nose and gums.
Take precautions to prevent mosquito bites by applying insect repellent and wearing light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants.
Mosquitoes carrying the virus favor smaller areas of still water.
Individuals can assist in removing mosquito breeding sites by emptying or discarding items that can collect water.
