MoH says the increase was part of a broader upward trend nationwide, with several states recording significant rises in dengue cases. – AFP photo
KUCHING (Aug 21): Sarawak recorded 629 dengue cases as at Aug 15, a 33 per cent increase from the 473 cases recorded during the same period last year, according to the Health Malaysia Ministry (MoH).
The ministry said the increase was part of a broader upward trend nationwide, with several states recording significant rises in dengue cases.
Sabah also recorded an increase of 34 per cent, with 3,753 cases.
Perlis registered the highest increase nationwide at 207 per cent, followed by Johor at 109 per cent and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya at 106 per cent.
On the other hand, dengue cases declined in Kedah, Melaka and Penang by 60 per cent, 36 per cent and 26 per cent, respectively.
Selangor continued to record the highest number of dengue cases in the country, with 25,090 cases as of Aug 15, up 61 per cent from 15,610 cases over the corresponding period last year.
This was followed by Sabah with 3,753 cases, and Negeri Sembilan, 3,619.
In the statement, MoH said dengue prevention required a whole-of-society approach, with more than 70 per cent of Aedes mosquito breeding sites still being found in residential areas.
“Ministries and government agencies, local authorities, the private sector, premises management, communities and every individual need to play a role in ensuring the areas under their respective responsibility are free from Aedes breeding sites,” it said.
The ministry also urged the public to set aside at least 10 minutes each week to inspect and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites in and around their homes.
It also advised the public to take precautions against mosquito bites and seek immediate medical attention if they develop fever or dengue warning signs.
MoH said it would continue to monitor the dengue situation closely and adjust its interventions according to current epidemiological developments.
“Cooperation from all parties is vital to ensure dengue prevention and control efforts can be carried out continuously and effectively,” it added.