KUALA LUMPUR: The number of dengue fever cases in the country jumped 223 percent in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Amar Zahid Hamidi said that as of March 25, 26,222 cases of dengue fever were recorded, compared to 8,124 cases in the same period last year. And, the number of deaths due to dengue fever complications increased by 400 percent to 17 from 4 last year.

Selangor had the highest number of cases with 13,510, followed by Sabah (2,685), Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (2,430), Penang (2,113) and Johor (1,758). The government has taken various measures, including allowing NGOs and volunteer doctors to travel to the area according to a schedule, especially in hotspots.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue is one of the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases in the world.  It is most common in tropical and sub-tropical areas, and is caused by the dengue virus.  Symptoms of dengue include headache, fever, muscle and joint pain, and rash.  In severe cases, it can lead to shock and even death.  Prevention measures include wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellents, and getting rid of areas of stagnant water around the home where mosquitoes can breed.  Vaccines are now available in some areas as well, which is an important step in controlling dengue epidemics.

Prevention

The most important thing to do is to reduce exposure to mosquitoes, which is what carries the virus. Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, can help to keep mosquitoes away from the skin. Additionally, using insect repellents can be effective in keeping them away. Make sure to apply insect repellents to the skin and clothing, particularly in areas where mosquitoes are most active.

Another important prevention measure is to reduce areas of stagnant water around the home, as these are the places where mosquitoes lay their eggs. Regularly check and empty containers such as buckets, barrels, and birdbaths that collect water, as well as any other areas that may become wet for long periods of time. If possible, use mosquito nets around beds or other areas where you may gather.

Finally, there are now vaccines available in some areas that can help to protect individuals from dengue. Make sure to check with your local healthcare provider to see if there is a dengue vaccine available in your area. Taking these steps can help to reduce the risk of contracting the virus, and keep you and your loved ones safe.

Testing

Dengue rapid tests can be a valuable tool in diagnosing dengue infection. These tests detect the presence of dengue virus-specific antibodies in a person’s blood and allow for quick, accurate results. This can help to reduce the time it takes to diagnose a person with dengue, which is especially important in areas where dengue is most common.

If you have symptoms of dengue fever and live in or have recently visited an area where you are at risk for dengue fever, consult your health care provider. Ask them for advice on testing that is appropriate for you.