Weekly dengue cases remain high: NEA

SINGAPORE — The number of weekly dengue cases has remained high over the start of this year, and the National Environment Agency (NEA) has warned that it could lead to another dengue outbreak if not properly managed.

According to a media release issued on Thursday (19/01/), there were 279 reported cases of dengue between 9 and 15, according to the agency. This number is almost twice that of 2022.

On Wednesday, there were 82 active clusters of dengue. This includes 13 large clusters that have 10 or more cases of dengue.

Clusters with the highest dengue transmission rates are located in Hougang Avenue 1, Lorong 4 Toa Paioh (46), and Hougang Ave 6 (34).

Dengue virus serotype 3 is still the most prevalent in Singapore. Because the population immunity to DENV-3 has fallen, more people are at risk of being infected with this serotype.

NEA reminded the public that they must remove mosquito breeding habitats from their homes and the surrounding areas. They also advised them to be vigilant for the dengue threat to help prevent an increase in cases.

In the Chinese New Year period of 2018, we intensified inspection

NEA increased inspections at all nurseries in the lead up to Chinese New Year.

These nurseries have also received a festive public relations campaign that includes the distribution of a dengue prevention package. Red packets and posters with dengue prevention messages are included in the package. This reminds buyers and sellers alike to keep their eyes open for mosquito breeding and to ensure that they don’t sell plants to anyone.

Spring cleaning is a good time to remind homeowners to properly dispose off any large furniture and household items. This is to avoid discarded items becoming mosquito breeding areas.

The owners of plants are asked to make sure that no water accumulates on the top of flower pot plates or in hardened soil.

Members of the public are encouraged to practise the following ‘B-L-O-C-K’ steps:

• BYou can rake up soil that is hardened

• LIft and empty flowerpot plates

• OTurn pails upside down and wipe their rims

• Change water in vases

• KClear your roof gutters and apply BTI insecticide

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