 The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is closely monitoring the number of dengue fever cases recorded on Islander. For the month of August, St. Lucia has recorded three cases of dengue fever. However, a total of 13 cases of dengue fever has been recorded for the year 2022. The Ministry of Health continues to maintain active disease surveillance and is encouraging persons to remain vigilant against contracting vector-borne diseases like dengue fever. Although an increase in the number of dengue fever cases during the rainy season is not unusual, the Ministry remains on high alert and would like to advise the public to take heed to the following best practices that you can implement. 1. Perform weekly inspections in and around your house for mosquito breeding sites. 2. Mosquitoes can breed even in the tiniest amount of water. 3. Remove all water-holding containers and stagnant water around the house to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. 3. Remember, you are first in line to be bitten by mosquitoes that breed in your own yard and garden. So, make sure that you are careful and read your property of mosquito breeding grounds. 4. Check water tanks and other water storage containers. 5. Repair damaged septic tanks and ensure that they are air and water tight. 6. Install screens on windows, doors and vents. 7. Regularly clean roof gutterings and drains so that water runs freely. 8. Change waters in pet drinking bowls and flower vases at least twice every other day. 9. Scrub the sides of all water-filled containers to remove any eggs stuck to the side. 10. Use insect repellents when both inside and outside the house to prevent mosquito bites. The Ministry of Health advises the public to visit a wellness center in your community in the event of experiencing the signs and symptoms of dengue fever. For more information, please contact the Environmental Health Division within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs at 468-3700 or 454-6329 and 459-7329.