Rainy season will increase dengue cases, says Subra
PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry is bracing for the likelihood of an increase in dengue cases when the rainy season hits the nation next month.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam, said the ministry had requested all states to intensify efforts in fighting dengue, especially by clearing areas that could be turned into aedes mosquito breeding grounds.
“We are also getting all state and district health offices to focus on environmental health. In the next two to three months, we will ask local authorities to redouble cleaning operations in areas that can be breeding grounds for mosquitoes, such as open spaces.
“We are also asking local authorities to reinforce their solid waste management,” he said after chairing the weekly post-cabinet meeting yesterday.
Dr Subramaniam said the ministry would also work with non-governmental organisations in the fight against dengue.
The number of dengue cases rose by 31.7 per cent last week, with 2,281 cases recorded between Sept 21 and Sept 27, compared with 1,732 cases recorded the previous week.
