BY: Aida Aziz
IPOH: The number of dengue fever cases in the administrative area of the Ipoh City Council (MBI) has recorded an increase since the beginning of this year, with 598 cases reported as of May 20 (Epid Week: 20).
According to the Mayor of Ipoh, Datuk Rumaizi Baharin, the increase represents a surge of 262.4% compared to 165 cases reported during the same period last year.
“As of May 28, there are 11 outbreak localities, namely Taman Klebang Jaya (3), Taman Kar King (8), Taman Desa Aman (3), Kampung Kuala Pari (2), Buntong 2 (2), Taman Mewah (2), Taman Hiburan (2), Kampung Baru Buntong (4), Kampung Sungai Rokam (2), and Taman Hillview (3),” he said.
He made the statement during a media briefing after chairing the May Council Meeting at the MBI Conference Room on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, he stated that the fluctuations in dengue cases within the MBI administrative area are closely related to the hot and intermittent rainy weather conditions.
“Infected adult mosquitoes and dengue virus carriers (individuals who have contracted dengue) continue to exist in and around the city based on the ongoing cases,” he further explained.
Rumaizi also advised the public to remain vigilant in their efforts to combat the dengue outbreak through collective responsibility, aiming to eliminate Aedes mosquito breeding grounds.
“Planting flowers or having gardens around homes and road reserves is a healthy activity, but if it is not well-maintained and left overgrown, it can become a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes.
“Farmers often use bottles as water storage containers, as well as plastic canvases, which can directly collect water. If these items are not properly maintained, they can contribute to mosquito breeding and become a source of the outbreak,” he added.
