09 Nov 2019 | 08:49 AM UTC
Indonesia: Over 110,000 dengue fever cases reported through October /update 3
Indonesian health officials report a significant increase in dengue fever cases through October 2019; at least 110,000 cases recorded nationwide
Event
Health officials in Indonesia have reported a higher number of cases of dengue fever nationwide through October 2019. At least 110,921 cases have been reported, which is significantly higher than the 65,602 cases recorded in all of 2018. According to officials, the majority of cases were found in Java or Bali, with 61,701 total cases, followed by Sumatra. Further spread of the disease is expected over the coming months.
Context
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease found mostly in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rash. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging.
Advice
Individuals in Indonesia are advised to take measures to prevent mosquito bites (e.g. wearing covering clothing, using insect repellent, sleeping in air-conditioned or screened rooms) and eliminate possible mosquito breeding grounds.
