As a parent, your top priority is keeping your family safe and healthy. However, a worrying trend has emerged in Singapore, with dengue fever cases more than doubling in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) reported an alarming 5,000 dengue cases from January to March, a sharp increase from the 2,360 cases in the first quarter of 2023. Tragically, seven people have already lost their lives to dengue infections this year, surpassing the six fatalities recorded for the entirety of 2023.
Singapore Dengue Prevention Campaign: Protecting Our Families
To combat the rising threat of dengue fever, the NEA has launched a national dengue prevention campaign, urging the community to take urgent action. Specifically, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and the Environment Baey Yam Keng emphasized the concerning increase in weekly dengue cases, which exceeded 300 in the first quarter of 2024.
Consequently, as parents, it is our responsibility to stay informed and take the necessary steps to safeguard our loved ones from this dangerous disease.
High Aedes Mosquito Population: A Threat to Our Homes
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The Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary carrier of the dengue virus, has been thriving in Singapore. In fact, the number of Aedes mosquito breeding habitats found in residential premises in January 2024 was double that of January 2023.
As of March 28, the NEA has identified 27 high-risk dengue clusters under the “red” alert level, indicating areas with 10 or more cases. Therefore, parents must be vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent mosquito breeding in and around our homes.
Low Immunity to Singapore Dengue Virus Serotypes: A Cause for Concern
Moreover, the NEA has warned that the population in Singapore has low immunity to all four dengue virus serotypes. This factor, combined with the persistent presence of dengue risk factors, could lead to a surge in cases in the coming months if insufficient action is taken.
With that in mind, we must educate ourselves and our children about the importance of dengue prevention and the steps we can take to reduce the risk of infection.
Urgent Action Needed: Protecting Your Family from Singapore Dengue
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Parents, the time to act is now! To protect your family from the rising threat of dengue fever in Singapore, it is crucial to take immediate action. Regularly inspect your home for potential mosquito breeding sites, such as stagnant water in flowerpot plates, roof gutters, and discarded containers. Ensure that your home is properly screened to prevent mosquitoes from entering, and use mosquito repellent when outdoors, especially during peak biting hours.
By working together as a community and following the NEA’s guidelines, we can help prevent a devastating surge in Singapore dengue cases and keep our loved ones safe. Let’s take charge of our family’s health and well-being by staying informed, taking proactive measures, and spreading awareness about the importance of dengue prevention.
Together, we can make a difference and protect our families from this dangerous disease.
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