A high number of suspected dengue fever cases — with 7 confirmed though laboratory testing — has prompted a clean up of two villages in the Eastern District on the main island of Tutuila and health officials encourage people to keep their surroundings clean especially areas where mosquitoes breed.

Dengue fever is a mosquito borne disease with the last major outbreak two years ago.

One resident told Samoa News that an LBJ physician told her that she has dengue and to stay home. She was also given a doctors notice for her employer.

Last week there have been unconfirmed reports from some residents, who believe they have dengue.

Responding to Samoa News questions, Health Department epidemiologist Scott Anesi, explained that at the moment they have been able to utilize rapid dengue kits to test possible dengue case and have 13 positive cases.

So far the majority of the cases have come from Afono and Vatia villages with one case from Nuuuli, he said, adding that a clean up for Afono and Vatia was launched Saturday, Feb. 18.

As dengue is a mosquito -transmitted virus DOH encourages the use of environmental control measures by cleaning out water collecting containers and practicing good sanitation.

And remember the 3 D’s- DRAIN water, DEFEND yourself by using mosquito repellent containing DEET, and DRESS protectively.

See Tuesday’s edition for more details.