Singapore officials reported an increase in dengue fever cases in 2018, including an increase in cases during the past three weeks.

Image/CIA
Image/CIA

According to the National Environment Agency (NEA), the total number of dengue cases reported in 2018 was 3,285, which is almost 20 per cent more than in 2017, but lower than the annual number of cases reported in the earlier outbreak years.

The last two weeks of 2018 and the first week of 2019 saw an increase in cases with 207.

In addition, a 40 per cent increase in the Aedes aegypti mosquito population in December 2018 compared to that in December 2017 was detected using the Gravitrap surveillance system.

Officials say although there is no signal for a major outbreak, the increased Aedes aegypti mosquito population in the community coupled with the high current number of dengue cases may lead to a surge in case numbers in 2019.

To keep dengue in check, NEA has commenced intensive source reduction exercise with our major stakeholders. Together with the members of the Inter-Agency Dengue Task Force, as well as all Town Councils, NEA will continue its efforts to remove potential mosquito breeding habitats from public areas and housing estates. Effective dengue prevention requires the vigilance and participation of everyone in the community.