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In the 6th Epidemiological Week (EW06) from February 4-10, the number of dengue cases witnessed a decrease, totaling 3,631 cases compared to the previous week's count of 3,969. Despite the positive decline, one death occurred due to complications related to dengue fever during this period, according to Health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan.
The cumulative dengue cases reported so far this year reached 22,058, marking a significant increase from the 13,094 cases reported during the corresponding period last year. Dr Radzi highlighted that ten deaths attributed to dengue fever complications were reported, compared to nine fatalities during the same period in the previous year.
While the decrease in reported cases is a positive development, the number of dengue hotspots increased to 199 localities in EW06, up from 180 in the preceding week. Among these, Selangor accounted for 158 hotspots, with 18 in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, 10 in Negeri Sembilan, six in Perak, two each in Penang and Kedah, and one each in Pahang, Johor, and Sabah.
Dr Muhammad Radzi addressed chikungunya surveillance, noting that no cases were recorded in EW06, bringing the cumulative figure for this year to three cases. He emphasized the historical trend of dengue cases, mentioning that cases tend to peak every four or five years. The increase observed since 2023 is anticipated to continue rising in 2024.
The health director-general identified unpredictable weather changes and increased public movement, particularly during festive seasons, weekends, and school holidays, as contributing factors to the upsurge in dengue fever cases. The statement underscores the need for continued vigilance and public awareness to combat the spread of dengue, especially in hotspot areas.
Efforts to mitigate the impact of the rising dengue cases include intensified surveillance, community education, and proactive measures to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes. As authorities remain vigilant, the public is encouraged to adopt preventive measures to reduce the risk of dengue infections in their communities.
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