Singapore has witnessed a significant rise in dengue cases, with more than 6,200 cases reported as of September 5, 2023. This alarming surge in dengue infections has been primarily driven by the dominance of the dengue virus serotype 1 (DenV-1), according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).
DenV-1 Takes Center Stage
The NEA's press release highlights the growing risk of dengue transmission as DenV-1 gains prominence in Singapore. This concerning trend is emerging amidst high weekly dengue cases, the presence of several large and persistent dengue clusters, and a substantial Aedes mosquito population in various areas of the city-state.
Over the past two months, DenV-1 cases have seen a significant uptick, displacing the previously dominant dengue virus serotype 3 (DenV-3). In July, DenV-1 cases accounted for approximately 55 percent of infections, nearly triple the proportion of DenV-3 cases at 17 percent. This shift is raising concerns within the public health community, as historically, an increase in the prevalence of a less common dengue virus serotype has led to a surge in dengue cases in the months that follow.
Active Dengue Clusters on the Rise
Currently, Singapore is grappling with 48 active dengue clusters, 13 of which have been classified as large due to the presence of more than 10 reported cases within these areas. Some of the noteworthy large clusters include one at Science Park Drive with 29 cases and another at Lentor Loop with 24 cases. These clusters have shown a rapid rate of dengue transmission.
Persistent dengue transmission has also been observed in other significant clusters, such as the one with 319 cases at Lorong 1, Lorong 2 Toa Payoh, and another with 177 cases at Lorong 1A Toa Payoh. Additional large dengue clusters include the one with 66 cases at Angklong Lane and the cluster with 44 cases at Eng Kong Road.
Mosquito Breeding Hotspots
The NEA's data highlights that, in dengue cluster areas, approximately 68 percent of Aedes mosquito breeding sites were found in homes, while 29 percent were detected in public areas. One percent of breeding sites were identified at construction sites, and the remaining 2 percent were located in other types of premises.
Collaborative Efforts to Combat Dengue
In response to the escalating dengue situation, the NEA is collaborating with premise operators, including town councils, and partners within the Inter-Agency Dengue Task Force. Their efforts are focused on intensive vector control operations, emphasizing environmental management, and the detection and removal of mosquito breeding habitats. These actions are further supported by insecticide spraying in residential areas, larviciding in common areas, and fogging to eliminate adult mosquitoes.
Additionally, the NEA has worked closely with grassroots leaders, community partners, and volunteers to conduct over 380 outreach activities since the start of the peak dengue season in May, engaging the public in dengue prevention efforts.
Community Action
Residents are strongly encouraged to play their part in preventing dengue transmission by taking the following actions:
- Break up hardened soil.
- Lift and empty flowerpot plates.
- Overturn pails and wipe their rims.
- Change the water in vases regularly.
- Keep roof gutters clear and place BTI insecticide inside.
In light of the concerning rise in dengue cases, community engagement and proactive measures are crucial in curbing the spread of the disease in Singapore. Public cooperation, alongside the efforts of relevant authorities, will be instrumental in combating this dengue outbreak.
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