80% of imported chikungunya cases visited Johor recently

Lynda Hong, Channel NewsAsia 27 Aug 08;

SINGAPORE : The large number of travellers between Singapore and Johore is a major reason for the recent surge in the number of chikungunya fever cases here, said Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan in Parliament on Wednesday.

Mr Khaw said about 80 per cent of the 61 imported cases here had recently travelled to the southern state of Johore in Malaysia, where cases have been on the rise.

While his ministry is working closely with the National Environment Agency to eliminate breeding sites locally, Mr Khaw stressed that the public also had to play their part.

He said: "At this point in time, Johore is a major problem area, and it also coincides with the durian season, and I know many Singaporeans go to durian plantations. So if you do, I think you should just protect yourself... mosquito repellents may help." - CNA/ms