More dengue cases in Singapore this year compared to same period in 2007

Channel NewsAsia 19 Apr 08;

SINGAPORE: The total number of dengue victims across Singapore this year says the Ministry of Health (MOH)is much higher than in the same period in 2007.

Latest figures show that there were 1,400 reported cases of dengue between January and 12 April this year. This is an increase of 47.3 per cent from the same period last year.

One potential hotspot is construction sites.

The number of reported dengue cases at a construction site at Upper Paya Lebar Road continues to climb. And with 41 cases as of 12 April, it is the largest dengue cluster found in Singapore this year.

Since 14 April, seven more cases have been discovered at this hotspot bringing the total to 41.

Most are foreign workers living on-site. The MOH said 20 victims who were warded for treatment have since been discharged.

Officers from the National Environment Agency have been conducting checks at public areas at HDB estates since the beginning of 2008.

And after that, the fight moves into the homes.

Tai Ji Choong, Head of Operations, National Environment Agency, said: "We're approaching the warmer season in June which is also the season for dengue transmission. So if they start doing their work now, then later on in June, we can actually have a better situation then." - CNA/vm