In the 21st Epidemiological Week (ME21) from May 19 to May 25, the reported number of dengue fever cases decreased to 2,426, down from 2,461 cases the previous week, according to Health Director-General Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan.
During this period, there were also four deaths reported due to complications from dengue fever. Dr. Muhammad Radzi highlighted that the cumulative number of dengue cases reported up to ME21 reached 62,107, a significant increase from the 46,257 cases reported during the same period in 2023.
"There have been 46 deaths due to dengue complications reported so far this year, compared to 31 fatalities for the same period last year," Dr. Muhammad Radzi stated in a recent press release.
The number of dengue hotspots also saw an increase, with 63 localities identified in ME21, up from 59 in the previous week. Dr. Muhammad Radzi provided a breakdown of the hotspots: 44 in Selangor, eight in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, five in Kedah, two each in Sarawak and Perak, and one each in Penang and Negeri Sembilan.
In addition to dengue, Dr. Muhammad Radzi reported on the status of other vector-borne diseases. Four cases of chikungunya were recorded in ME21, bringing the total number of chikungunya cases this year to 29.
Regarding Zika surveillance, Dr. Muhammad Radzi noted that 1,049 blood samples and six urine samples were tested, all of which returned negative results.
This comprehensive overview by Dr. Muhammad Radzi underscores the ongoing challenges posed by dengue fever and other vector-borne diseases in the region. The health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to manage and control the spread of these diseases.
Efforts to combat dengue fever include public health campaigns focused on reducing mosquito breeding sites, promoting the use of mosquito repellents, and encouraging community participation in cleanliness drives. The health department is also intensifying vector control activities in identified hotspots to prevent further outbreaks.
Public cooperation remains crucial in addressing these health concerns. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and take preventive measures to protect themselves and their families from mosquito-borne illnesses. The health authorities continue to appeal to the public to eliminate standing water around their homes and use protective measures to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
As the situation evolves, health officials will continue to provide updates and guidance to ensure the well-being of the population. The reduction in weekly dengue cases is a positive sign, but sustained efforts are necessary to maintain this trend and reduce the overall impact of dengue fever and other related diseases.
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