USVI dengue fever cases likely underreported as residents avoid medical treatment

CHARLOTTE AMALIE — Public health officials say they are having difficulty assessing the scope of the dengue surge in the territory, due to the reluctance of many Virgin Islanders to seek formal diagnoses and medical treatment for their ailments.

“The numbers of cases are far higher than” the 89 confirmed cases of dengue that have been recorded in the territory thus far, said Chief Medical Officer Tai Hunte-Ceasar during Monday’s Government House press briefing. “People do not always seek care, allowing for testing and accurate diagnosing,” she noted.

“Our true dengue burden is unknown, and we are encouraging residents to get tested for dengue if you do have symptoms,” Dr. Hunte-Ceasar urged the populace. “It is crucial to see your doctor and get tested to confirm whether you have dengue or another illness. This is the only way we can accurately track the rate of dengue in our community.”‌