Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony reported significant achievements in the health sector for the year 2023, specifically highlighting successful efforts in controlling the rise of dengue and managing the spread of malaria.
In 2023, Guyana experienced a notable increase in dengue cases, with approximately 27,000 tests conducted by the Ministry of Health.
Minister Anthony credited the decline in cases to ongoing fogging and other preventive interventions implemented by the ministry.
Despite the spike, the number of cases significantly decreased over the course of the year.
Dr. Anthony provided specific statistics, noting that there were 7,859 reported cases of dengue throughout the year, with only five active cases at the time of the report.
Hospitalizations related to dengue reached 1,182 individuals.
The minister emphasized that continuous monitoring and recording of cases remain a priority for the health sector.
Regarding malaria, 1,629 cases were recorded from 100,000 tests conducted.
To further combat the spread of malaria, the ministry plans to collaborate with stakeholders in the mining industry, where the disease is prevalent among miners.
The initiative includes training gold miners and mining camp workers to conduct malaria diagnostics, treatment, and reporting.
The minister expressed optimism that this strategy would lead to a significant drop in malaria cases.
The health sector is also incorporating rapid testing methods to diagnose malaria cases promptly.
These successful control measures for dengue and malaria showcase the effectiveness of Guyana’s health interventions and the commitment to public health.