Dengue outbreak: Sekama still affected, public reminded to take preventive measures

Dr Jamilah Hashim

KUCHING, Feb 16: Two localities in Sekama are still considered dengue outbreak areas, with 15 victims reported to have been infected this year.

State Health director Dr Jamilah Hashim said as of Thursday (Feb 14), 12 cases had been reported at Jalan Sekama since it was declared a dengue outbreak area on Jan 23. Three other cases were reported at Jalan Sekama Utara, which was declared a dengue outbreak area on Feb 11.

To prevent further spread of the outbreak, all residents and premise owners at both localities are required to carry out cleaning activities in their surroundings and clear potential Aedes mosquito breeding grounds on a weekly basis, she advised in a statement today.

She reminded residents and premise owners to ensure their surroundings were clean and free of Aedes mosquitoes.

The state Health Department said efforts to curb dengue fever was a public responsibility, which required the whole community to cooperate with government agencies.

“Do clear out areas and get rid of items that can hold water and potentially become Aedes mosquito breeding grounds every week, as well as using aerosol spray at home and other premises to kill adult Aedes mosquitoes,” she continued.

Dr Jamilah advised individuals who were feeling feverish and showing symptoms of the dengue virus to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health clinic.

She advised the public to always take precautionary steps to avoid dengue fever. Preventive measures and other guidelines can be found at at the Health Ministry’s website at www.myhealth.gov.my or www.infosihat.gov.my. — DayakDaily