Authorities have confirmed a dengue outbreak in Queensland’s far north is up to eight cases. Source: AAP
A DENGUE outbreak in Queensland’s tropical north has spread, bringing to eight the total number of cases in Cairns.
HEALTH authorities say the most recent case of the mosquito-borne virus was confirmed this week at Trinity Beach, north of the city.
Seven others have contracted the virus in the suburb of Edmonton. Director of Tropical Public Health Services Dr Richard Gair says residents need to be extra vigilant to stop the spread of dengue, which can cause fever, severe headaches, vomiting and diarrhoea. “These confirmed cases show we can’t be complacent,” he said. “Only a small amount of water can make areas perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.” Last dengue season, 136 people were infected with the virus in Cairns.