Third local dengue death reported

27 Jun 2007

There has been a third local dengue death in Singapore. The patient was a 66-year-old Singaporean Chinese male residing at Bukit Merah, who developed fever on 15 June. He was seen by a GP and given outpatient treatment, but was admitted into Alexandra Hospital for treatment on 18 June after tests showed that he had contracted dengue fever. His condition deteriorated rapidly whilst in hospital. Despite medical management, he passed away on 19 June. The cause of death has been determined as dengue fever.

Public to remain vigilant

MOH advises the public to seek medical attention immediately if they feel unwell and have a fever during this period. If they are diagnosed by the doctor to have dengue, they should follow the doctor's advice and ensure that they have adequate rest and drink enough water to prevent dehydration. For suspect or confirmed dengue patients, they should also protect themselves and their household members from mosquito bites, for example, by using mosquito repellent, mosquito coils, mosquito nets and by wearing protective clothing. This will help protect their families from contracting the disease and break the chain of transmission.