DENGUE fever cases rose to 1,474 in the 40th Epidemiological Week (EW 40) between October 2 and 8, compared with 1,460 cases in EW 39. 

Health Director-General Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the figure puts the total number of dengue cases reported at 45,018, compared with 20,376 cases for the same period last year, which is an increase of 24,642 cases (120.9%). 

He said the number of cumulative deaths rose 100% to 28 deaths due to reported complications from dengue compared with 14 deaths in the same period last year. 

“A total of 53 hotspot areas were reported this week compared with 55 hotspot localities in the previous week, with 31 hotspot areas in Selangor, 14 in Sabah and eight in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya,” he said in a statement today. 

Dr Noor Hisham said chikungunya surveys recorded three cases in EW 40 with two cases in Selangor and one case in Kedah, making the cumulative cases to date at 652. 

As for zika surveys, a total of 1,544 blood samples and 16 urine samples were taken, with all results negative.

Dr Noor Hisham said everyone should ensure there are no water-retaining containers in the vicinity of their homes that could end up as breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, and dispose of worn-out or unused items at disposal sites in a safe and proper manner. 

He advised those affected by floods to conduct search-and-destroy activities to clear all Aedes mosquito breeding grounds immediately after floodwaters recede. 

This is because it is feared that the rubbish carried by the floodwaters can stagnate and become a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes, he also said.

“Avoid Aedes mosquito bites by using repellents, aerosol sprays (for hidden places) and clothing that fully cover the body. Without Aedes, there won’t be dengue, chikungunya or zika,” he added. – Bernama, October 14, 2022.