The Dominican Republic has expanded its fumigation exercise in an effort to combat the dengue virus outbreak in the country.
The expansion of fumigation services was one of nine measures adopted by President Luis Abinader and his cabinet following a marathon meeting at the National Palace on Wednesday.
Over 6,000 cases of dengue fever have been recorded in the Dominican Republic. The urban areas of Santo Domingo Norte, Este, Distrito Nacional and Santiago recorded the highest numbers of infections since the outbreak began.
Homero Figueroa, Director of Strategy and Communication of the Presidency, told reporters that beginning on Friday, the measures such as house-to-house fumigation and the cleaning of public spaces will begin.
The government plans to increase capacitywithin the public health care system to provide timely treatment to dengue patients.
Dengue testing services will be widely available for more accurate and rapid diagnosis of the virus.
A public awareness campaign will also be carried out.
General Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Centre (COE), will coordinate the support actions of all operations carried out by the Dengue Action Cabinet.
Dominicans, who experience any symptoms of a fever, have been urged to seek medical attention for possible dengue infection since early treatment can save their lives.