GEORGE TOWN, March 25 – Health Director-General Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan’s recent announcement of a significant increase in dengue cases underscores the urgent need for collective action in combating this deadly tropical disease. With 18,247 cases recorded in the first five weeks of 2024, a staggering 65.6% rise compared to the same period last year, the threat of dengue looms large over communities. Dengue’s prevalence is fueled by various factors, including globalization, urbanization, and potentially climate change.
A recent survey conducted by CAP in Penang revealed stagnant water in construction sites and unclean drains, providing ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Additionally, the surge in online shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in plastic waste, further exacerbating the problem. In response, CAP urges local authorities to ramp up enforcement and take decisive action against any sites facilitating mosquito breeding, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to curb dengue transmission.
