Kes denggi lonjak 56%, 55 maut

The Health Ministry reported a significant increase of 56.2% in dengue fever cases, with 58,079 reported nationwide until the 32nd Epidemiology Week (ME32) on August 15th. This marked a 56.2% rise compared to the same period last year, with 55 deaths recorded due to complications from the disease. The ministry noted that the rise in cases was primarily concentrated in the Klang Valley, specifically Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya.

According to the ministry, 25,090 cases were reported in Selangor, followed by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (10,316 cases), Johor (8,639), Sabah (3,753), Negeri Sembilan (3,619), Perak (1,793), Kelantan (1,180), Penang (916), Pahang (690), Sarawak (629), Kedah (599), Melaka (477), Terengganu (196), Perlis (169), and Labuan (13).

The ministry stated that positive developments in the situation started to emerge after prevention and control measures were intensified. However, the risk of dengue fever transmission remains high, and the national situation is still a concern due to the increased cases in several other states. The ministry attributed this rise to unpredictable weather conditions, where rain alternated with hot weather creating a conducive environment for the Aedes mosquito breeding.

Additionally, the presence of numerous stagnant water containers in households and surroundings contributed to the increased risk of Aedes mosquito breeding and the spread of dengue fever. The ministry emphasized that prevention and control efforts require a collective approach from the entire community. They requested the public to allocate at least 10 minutes each week to inspect and eliminate Aedes breeding sites within and around their homes.

Furthermore, the public was urged to take preventive measures against mosquito bites and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience high fever or dengue fever symptoms.