Updated 16 June 2020
The Situation:
Singapore is seeing record numbers of dengue infections this year. As of 15 June, 11,166 cases were recorded - higher than the typical total number of cases. Only six times in the past 50 years has the annual number of dengue infections exceeded this year’s cases.
Statistics:
1,158 dengue cases were reported last week (ending on 13 June) – the first time in Singapore history that the week total reached over 1,000.
A 33% increase from the 870 cases reported the week before.
There are currently 221 active clusters with 7 of those counting over 100 people infected.
12 people have died from dengue so far this year.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) said this could be a record-breaking year as the previous record was set in 2013 with 22,170 total cases.
According to the NEA, unattended water – a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes – around homes has been a leading cause.
The agency found fives times the usual number of breeding sites around homes in April and May, while only two times the usual number of breeding sites around construction sites.
Symptoms of Dengue:
Sudden onset of fever for 2-7 days
Severe headache with pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain
Skin rashes
Nausea and vomiting
Mild bleeding (e.g. nose or gum bleed, or easy bruising
Most of the Symptoms usually appear 4-7 days after being bitten (ranges from 3-14 days).
Warning Signs of Severe Dengue:
Warning signs generally begin 24-48 hours after the fever subsides. If you develop any of the following symptoms, immediately go to a local clinic or emergency room:
Stomach or belly pain, tenderness
Vomiting (at least 3 times in 24 hours)
Bleeding from the nose or gums
Vomiting blood, or blood in the stool
Feeling tired, restless, or irritable
Mitigating Measures to Apply:
Wear long sleeves and pants, preferably permethrin-treated clothing
Use mosquito repellant, preferably with at least one of the following EPA-approved active ingredients:
DEET
Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US)
IR3535
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
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Avoid spending time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, such as at dawn and dusk
Avoid accommodations near standing or stagnant water
Stay in air-conditioned rooms
Make sure windows are screened properly
Use insecticide-treated bed nets
Speak with your healthcare provider for additional information regarding Dengue prevention
Seek medical attention if fever or any other symptoms appear after travel to an area with a known risk for dengue transmission
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