A case investigation by the Bureau of Public Health [BOG] in Suriname revealed that this case arose from autochthonous transmission of the DEN-3 virus. The patient arrived from Holland on April 26^th, 2001, became ill on May 6^th, 2001 and had not visited any other countries during the incubation period. As of May 2001, the BOG had observed an increase in the number of suspected cases of dengue fever in some areas of the city of Paramaribo.

Since Suriname has had outbreaks of dengue in previous years including one last year, many people are at an increased risk of dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Thus, the BOG in Suriname has sent updated guidelines on dengue fever/DHF management and reporting, to physicians in the country and established a dengue fever/DHF outbreak contingency plan.

Our member countries are at this time reminded of the importance having a dengue control strategy that includes source reduction, health education for the community and appropriate clinical case management.

Please feel free to contact CAREC’s Epidemiology Division on 868-622-2152 if you have any queries or need further information.

Queries related to specimen collection, storage or transport should be directed to CAREC’s Laboratories on 868-622-4262, extension 216.