It was reported that there had been a 275% rise in dengue cases in Labuan, Sabah from January this year to June 27th, with 15 cases recorded compared to only four cases last year.
The federal territory also saw one new case of Malaria. Alamak!
Photo via The Edge Markets
According to BERNAMA, its Health Department director Dr. Ismuni Bhari said that considering the increasing trend of dengue cases in many villages, routine surveillance and source reduction activities have intensified.
He also added that reminders had been issued to members of the public and building premises owners to ensure effective disposal of solid waste to help prevent mosquito breeding.
“All government and private office buildings including commercial establishments will be inspected for possible mosquito breeding,” he told BERNAMA.
Dr. Ismuni said increasing awareness and eliminating vector-breeding sites are some measures that could help control the disease.
Remember to follow these steps to stop mosquitoes from breeding in your home, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
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Throw away, turn over, empty, or store away any container that could accumulate rainwater
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Always place a tight lid on containers used for water storage, like buckets or drums
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Empty container, wash walls with a brush to remove eggs, rinse and then cover!
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Maintain running water in funtains and artificial lakes or estuaries. Place fish like guppies or betas in the fountains that are filled with water
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Empty buckets or drums that are not in use
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Clean animal drinking bowls everyday, taking care to wash away the eggs
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Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water
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Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. And empty plastic swimming pools when not in use
Stay safe, guys!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
