Dengue outbreak: 15 victims infected in Sekama, public urged to take preventive measures

0

A female Aedes aegypti mosquito is the primary carrier of the dengue virus. File Photo

KUCHING: The dengue virus has infected a total of 15 victims as of Feb 14 in Sekama, ever since the outbreak was declared in two locations in the area on Jan 23 and Feb 11.

According to the Sarawak State Health Department (JKN), the two areas affected are Jalan Sekama (12 cases) and Jalan Sekama Utara (three cases).

“To curb the spread of the outbreak, all residents and premise owners in the area are required to clear their surroundings from any potential Aedes mosquito breeding grounds on a weekly basis,” JKN state director Dr Jamilah Hashim said in a statement today.

To control the outbreak, JKN Sarawak is urging the public, especially the residents in the affected areas to clean their surroundings and get rid of junk that could hold stagnating water, effectively serving as a potential mosquito breeding ground.

Residents should also empty, drain or cover all things that can and may hold water as well as kill adult mosquitoes with aerosol sprays in their homes or business premises.

Those who are feeling feverish or showing symptoms of the dengue virus such as high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, severe joint and muscle pain, fatigue, nausea and vomiting should consult medical care immediately.

The public are also advised to follow the precautionary steps to avoid the dengue virus by visiting www.myhealth.gov.my or www.infosihat.gov.my.