Big rise in dengue cases in Pahang

By ROSLINA MOHAMAD
roslina@thestar.com.my

KUANTAN: The number of dengue cases in the state since Jan 1 was 838, a much higher figure compared to 568 in the corresponding period last year.

Kuantan topped the list with 480 cases, followed by Temerloh (85), Rompin (60), Bentong (48), Maran (40), Raub (33), Jerantut (27), Lipis (24), Bera (23), Pekan (17) and one in Cameron Highlands.

State Local Government, Environment and Health Committee chairman Datuk Hoh Khai Mun said 18 people were warded at various public and private hospitals in the state.

“The health department has identified six affected areas which are Taman LKNP Maju Sekilau, Taman Tas Utara, Taman Tas Selatan, Taman Orkid Kubang Buaya, Taman Beserah, Taman Hong Seng Galing and one in Raub - Batu 14, Jalan Raub.

“As a preventive measure, the department has carried out fogging activities at 841,272 premises,” he told a press conference here on Wednesday.

He added that the department had also conducted search and destroy operations at 280,328 premises and used larvicide such as abate. Out of 280,328 premises, 2,826 were found to be aedes breeding grounds, Hoh said.

“Special teams have been formed to provide assistance to district officers to control the outbreak and monitor the situation especially in high risk areas.”

He urged residents living in housing areas to conduct more gotong-royong activities.

He also reminded the public that under the Destruction of Disease-Bearing Insects Act, 1975 (amended 2000), they could be penalised if their premises were found to be breeding grounds for aedes mosquitoes.

“They can be fined up to RM100,000 or jailed for not more than two years, or both, if convicted.The department has already issued 1,714 compounds totalling RM243,980,” he added.