The recent surge in dengue cases in Malaysia has raised alarm bells, with the Health director-general, Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, reporting a 7.7% increase to 2,808 cases in the 24th Epidemiological Week (ME24) compared to the previous week. This rise in dengue cases is a stark reminder of the persistent public health threat posed by this mosquito-borne disease.
The cumulative number of dengue fever cases reported up to ME24 has seen a staggering increase of 149.6% to 54,139 cases compared to the same period in 2022. This dramatic rise, coupled with the reported 39 deaths due to dengue fever complications, underscores the severity of the situation.
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The number of dengue fever hotspots has also increased, reaching 110 localities, with Selangor accounting for the majority with 84 hotspots. This geographical spread of dengue hotspots indicates that the disease is not confined to a specific area but is a nationwide concern.
While the focus is on dengue, it’s worth noting that two chikungunya cases were also recorded in ME24, bringing the cumulative number of chikungunya cases to 137. However, the surveillance for Zika yielded negative results, a small relief in the midst of the current health crisis.
The National Dengue Operation Room has emphasized the high number of dengue fever cases and the potential for further increase if no preventive measures are taken by all parties, including the community. The call to action is clear: check every container inside and outside the house and ensure there is no water reservoir for Aedes mosquitoes to breed.
Experts warn of an impending dengue fever epidemic in Malaysia, with cases expected to peak in 2024 and 2025. This prediction, coupled with the current surge, underscores the urgentneed for comprehensive preventive measures. The cyclical nature of dengue fever outbreaks every three to five years, the prevalence of different dengue virus serotypes, and factors such as climate change, population growth, urbanization, and international travel contribute to the rise in dengue cases.
The current situation calls for a multi-pronged approach. Regular fogging operations, public efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and community education about the risks of dengue and the importance of early detection and treatment are crucial. The fight against dengue is a shared responsibility, and every effort counts.
The recent surge in dengue cases in Malaysia is a stark reminder of the persistent threat of this disease. The situation calls for urgent and comprehensive preventive measures to protect public health. The fight against dengue is a shared responsibility, and every effort counts.
Source: Malay mail
