KUCHING: Controlling the dengue outbreak in Sarawak is proving to be a challenge as the number of cases had risen drastically since last year, said Sarawak Health Department director Dr Jamilah Hashim.
“Although the number of cases is not as high as other states, we are worried about the increase,” she said.
“As of Week 23, 759 cases of dengue have been reported statewide. Kuching has the highest number with 263 cases, followed by Miri (98 cases), Betong (94 cases), and Sibu (73 cases).”
Dr Jamilah then highlighted Ajibah Abol as a dengue hotspot within Kuching as the most prevalent with 42 dengue cases in total.
She added that notices have been given to eleven compounds in the area and the notices were given if there were potential breeding spots in the compound.
“We hope to put an end to the hotspot status of Ajibah Abol as soon as possible,” said Dr Jamilah, adding that continuous efforts have been made to rid the area of Aedes mosquitoes.
She also emphasised that all parties needed to play their part to control the outbreak by closely monitoring their own houses.
“If the people’s houses have items that could hold stagnant water, these could be the breeding spots for Aedes mosquitoes. Seven days after the eggs are laid, the adult mosquito is ready and can bite people, and then dengue is spread and the cycle continues. We need to get rid of these containers to prevent them from breeding.”
On a brighter note, there have been no deaths caused by dengue in Sarawak thus far.
