Second local dengue death – MOH and NEA urge Public to be vigilant with dengue curbing measures

11 Jun 2007

Update of dengue situation in Singapore

As at 9th June, there were 293 dengue cases reported last week, up from 227 cases in the previous week. 54 clusters were active during the week. This calls for continued vigilance by members of the public to curb the rise of dengue infections.

There has been a second local dengue death in Singapore. The patient was a 63-year-old Singaporean Chinese male who developed onset of fever on 4 Jun. He was seen by a GP and given outpatient treatment but when his condition worsened on 5 Jun, he was admitted to TTSH. Tests performed by the hospital confirmed that he had acute dengue infection. His condition deteriorated rapidly whilst in hospital. Despite medical management, he passed away on 6 Jun and the cause of death was determined to be dengue shock syndrome.

Public to remain vigilant

Both MOH and NEA would like to urge members of the public to continue to be vigilant in the fight against dengue. Community effort is key in sustaining our efforts in suppressing mosquito population and curbing dengue transmission.

In recent weeks, NEA officers have continued to uncover indoor cases of mosquito breeding during their house-to-house inspections. Below are the breeding statistics:

• In 2007, a total of 2014 homes were found breeding from Jan to May. This is an increase of about 80% as compared to the same period in 2006, where only 1125 homes were found breeding.

• In April and May 07, out of every 1000 homes inspected, 6.3 and 5.6 homes respectively were found breeding mosquitoes. This is an increase from Feb and March where the figures were considerably lower - 1.5 & 1.7 home breedings were found per 1000 homes checked for the respective months.

• The most common home breeding habitats are domestic containers, flower pot plates, ornamental containers, discarded receptacles and roof gutters.

June to September is known to be the traditional period for dengue transmissions. We urge all households to practise the 10-minute mozzie wipe-out routine conscientiously. We should all do our part by ensuring that our own homes are not breeding grounds for mosquitoes. For families who are going abroad during this period of school holiday, it is especially important that we “mosquito-prove” our home before we leave.

At the same time, everyone can work together to keep the environment clean by practising good habits and not littering. Empty bottles, cups and cans collect water that could become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. 

Death from dengue shock syndrome can occur in a small minority of persons with dengue infection, including even previously healthy young adults. Anyone who feels unwell and has fever should seek medical attention immediately and if you are diagnosed by the doctor to have dengue, you should follow the doctor's advice.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AGENCY