13 Feb 2024 | 08:58 AM UTC
Singapore: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in February
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas across Singapore in February. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas across Singapore, with 2,025 total cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 3. This is compared to the 1,238 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. Currently, there are 96 active dengue clusters across Singapore, with clusters reporting the highest disease activity being located in the West region (Boon Lay, Bukit Batok, Jurong West), East region (Pasir Ris, Bedok), Northeast region (Ang Mo Kio), and Central region (Jln Semerbak, Jln Taman). Health officials urge the public to take the necessary mosquito bite prevention measures, and to eliminate possible mosquito breeding sites. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 13.
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.
Dengue fever is a year-round threat, nationwide threat in Singapore; however, risk of infection is typically highest from June to October. Health officials reported roughly 8,740 dengue fever cases nationwide in Singapore in 2023, 32,325 cases in 2022, 5,248 cases in 2021, and 35,356 cases in 2020.
There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia and Qdenga. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever 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 in a timely manner.
