Large clusters in Toa Payoh, Sin Ming, and Bukit Timah prompt urgent calls for mosquito breeding prevention.
SINGAPORE: The National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued a warning about a possible surge in dengue cases, urging the public to take immediate action to prevent mosquito breeding. The warning comes as Dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1) gains dominance over serotype 3 (DENV-3), which previously prevailed.
“There is a risk of a surge in dengue cases as DENV-1 gains dominance against a backdrop of high weekly dengue cases, large and persistent clusters, and elevated Aedes mosquito populations,” NEA stated on Wednesday (Sep 6).
Alarming Trends
Over 6,200 dengue cases have been reported in 2023 as of Tuesday, with 48 active clusters across Singapore. Thirteen of these clusters have more than 10 cases each.
Key hotspots include:
Lorong 1 and Lorong 2 Toa Payoh: A 319-case cluster.
Lorong 1A Toa Payoh: A 177-case cluster, with 280 mosquito breeding habitats detected.
Sin Ming (Angklong Lane): A 66-case cluster.
Bukit Timah (Eng Kong Road): A 44-case cluster.
Science Park Drive: A 29-case cluster with a fast transmission rate.
Lentor Loop: A 24-case cluster.
Rising Threat of DENV-1
The proportion of DENV-1 cases tripled to 55% in July, overtaking DENV-3 cases, which now stand at 17%. Historically, shifts in dominant dengue serotypes have been associated with surges in cases in subsequent months, NEA warned.
Public Action Urged
To combat the spread of dengue, NEA emphasized individual and community action, advising residents to:
Remove stagnant water and prevent mosquito breeding.
Follow the S-A-W steps:
Spray insecticide in dark corners.
Apply insect repellent regularly.
Wear long-sleeved tops and pants.
Residents are also encouraged to practice B-L-O-C-K steps:
Break up hardened soil.
Lift and empty flowerpot plates.
Overturn pails and wipe rims.
Change water in vases regularly.
Keep roof gutters clear and use BTI insecticide.
With 68% of mosquito breeding found in homes, NEA emphasized the importance of collective vigilance.
A Call for Vigilance
“Immediate action is needed to suppress the Aedes mosquito population and prevent a surge in dengue cases,” NEA stressed. Individuals diagnosed or suspected of having dengue are advised to avoid further mosquito bites to prevent transmission.
