Dengue infections more than double compared to December, a big concern, warns NEA

The count of Aedes mosquito breeding spots identified in residences surged twofold compared to January 2023.

In Singapore, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has emphasized the need for urgent measures to control the escalating number of Aedes mosquitoes, as dengue cases persistently rise. The agency expressed significant concern about the consistent increase in weekly dengue cases over the last ten weeks, attributing it to heightened disease transmission in regions with a substantial Aedes mosquito population.

As of February 14, Singapore has reported over 2,600 cases of dengue, with weekly cases consistently remaining high. In the week ending February 10 alone, 515 new cases were reported, indicating an ongoing concern for the prevalence of dengue in the region.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) highlighted that the number of reported dengue cases in February has more than doubled compared to December 2023. This surge is attributed, in part, to the population’s low herd immunity to all four dengue virus serotypes.

Dengue infections more than double compared to December, a big concern, warns NEA

Additionally, the number of Aedes mosquito breeding habitats in residences has doubled from January 2023, with identified breeding spots in items like pails, flowerpot plates or trays, and vases. NEA emphasized the need for collective efforts to curb Aedes mosquito numbers and reduce the risk of dengue transmission.

NEA’s inspections revealed mosquito breeding in ground puddles and canvas sheets at construction sites. Public areas like drains and discarded receptacles were identified as habitats too. The agency expressed concern over finding “egregious cases” of premises with multiple mosquito breeding spots and common breeding habitats with profuse mosquito activity. This underscores the importance of sustained efforts to eliminate breeding sites in both residential and public spaces to control the dengue situation.

Clusters of dengue cases have been identified in various parts of Singapore. NEA is actively conducting inspections and vector control operations in these clusters to curb the spread of the disease. Residents are urged to cooperate with NEA officers, allow them to carry out inspections, and take preventive measures to eliminate mosquito breeding habitats. These efforts aim to reduce the risk of dengue transmission and protect the community from further outbreaks. Stay vigilant and support mosquito control measures in your area.

Immidiate Action to Stop Dengue

Authorities in Singapore are calling for urgent action to combat the rising dengue cases. With a significant increase in weekly dengue infections over the past ten weeks, concerns are growing about intense disease transmission in areas with high Aedes mosquito populations. The National Environment Agency (NEA) emphasizes the need for immediate measures to suppress mosquito numbers. Dengue cases have more than doubled compared to December 2023, and the low herd immunity to all four dengue virus serotypes further complicates the situation. Residents are advised to take proactive steps to eliminate mosquito breeding habitats, contributing to collective efforts to curb the dengue outbreak. Stay informed and participate in mosquito control initiatives to protect the community from the spread of the virus.

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