Dengue cases on the rise in Sultanate
By Azlan Othman

Brunei has recorded an increase in Dengue fever cases this year compared to last year. However, the rise in Dengue cases is not only reported in Brunei but in many countries around the world.

Until September 30 this year, Brunei has recorded 143 cases of Dengue virus. Out of this figure, 94 showed symptoms/signs of dengue disease and 44 received treatment, the Ministry of Health said in a statement yesterday.

The Ministry of Health has undertaken preventive measures and controls against Dengue disease through environmental cleanliness especially cleanliness at residential areas, to control the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes (the species that carry Dengue virus), improper disposal of rubbish like empty cans, old tyres, clogged drains causing water to remain stagnant and hence becoming a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes.

Prevention and control steps taken by the Health Services Department in cooperation with the District Office, Municipal Department, Environment, Parks and Recreation Department and the Public Works Department include educating the public on health and environmental cleanliness, especially to village residents.

During the vector control campaign, officials from the Ministry of Health conducted health education from one house to the other.

Other steps included destroying the breeding ground of the mosquitoes, destroying Aedes by spraying pesticides and destroying Aedes mosquito larvae using chemicals.

The public too plays an important role in preventing Aedes mosquitoes from breeding by destroying its breeding ground.

For further inquiries the Ministry of Health can be contacted at 2382041/2381854 for Brunei/Muara District, 4221235 (Tutong), 3334222 (Belait) and 5221280/5221304 (Temburong).

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin