Singapore: Health officials report elevated dengue fever activity nationwide through April

Event

Singapore health officials have reported 3,981 cases of dengue fever nationwide between Jan. 1-April 9. This is more than double the 1,971 cases reported over a similar period in 2021. Weekly reported cases are increasing. Several active clusters exist nationwide. This represents the most complete data available as of April 12.

Context

Dengue fever is a nationwide, year-round risk in Singapore. Health officials reported more than 5,245 cases of dengue fever in 2021, 35,356 cases in 2020, and 15,910 cases in 2019.

A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. The vaccine is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Infected mosquito bites transmit dengue fever. Symptoms of the disease include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated promptly.

Advice

If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.