In the 19th Epidemiological Week (ME19), spanning from May 5 to May 11, a total of 343 new dengue fever cases were reported, bringing the cumulative number of cases to 2,338. This marks an increase from the 1,995 cases reported in the previous week.
Health Director-General Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan announced that there was one death due to dengue fever complications during this period. He further reported that the cumulative number of dengue fever cases up to ME19 in 2024 stands at 57,220, significantly higher than the 41,175 cases recorded during the same period in 2023. Additionally, there have been 40 fatalities due to dengue fever complications in 2024, compared to 26 deaths in the same timeframe in 2023.
Dr. Muhammad Radzi highlighted that 60 dengue hotspots were identified in ME19, a slight decrease from the 70 hotspots reported the previous week. Of these 60 hotspots, the majority were located in Selangor (45), followed by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (seven), Sarawak (three), Penang (two), and one each in Kedah, Perak, and Negeri Sembilan.
He emphasized the potential impact of the anticipated decrease in rainfall and the warmer weather expected during the Southwest Monsoon. These conditions are likely to lead to an increase in the population of Aedes mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors for dengue fever. Consequently, the public is urged to remain vigilant in preventing mosquito breeding by regularly inspecting and eliminating potential breeding sites both inside and outside their homes. This can be achieved through a weekly practice of "seeking and destroying" mosquito breeding grounds, dedicating at least 10 minutes each week to this task.
To mitigate the risk of dengue fever, it is crucial for communities to engage in proactive measures. Ensuring that stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, is removed or treated is essential. Simple actions such as properly covering water containers, regularly changing the water in flower vases, and ensuring proper waste management can significantly reduce the risk of dengue transmission.
Public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and provide necessary guidance and interventions to control the spread of dengue fever. Community cooperation is vital in these efforts to curb the rise in dengue cases and prevent further fatalities.
By maintaining heightened awareness and adopting preventive measures, the public can play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of dengue fever and protecting community health.
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