SINGAPORE – Singapore has seen 15 dengue-related deaths in 2024, more than double last year’s six fatalities, as reported by the National Environment Agency (NEA). This year, dengue cases have reached 12,736, surpassing 2023’s total of 9,949 but still below 2022’s 32,173 cases.
The NEA’s quarterly report shows a recent drop in cases, with 2,963 reported from July to September—a 27.6% decrease from the previous quarter. During this period, 354 dengue clusters were identified, with 309 closed, marking an 18% reduction in clusters from April to June. However, mosquito breeding sites increased slightly by 1%, with common areas found in homes (like pails, trays, and bins) and public spaces (such as drains and discarded containers).
In October, weekly cases have declined significantly from the September peak, when 182 cases were recorded in a single week. From October 20-26, 118 cases were reported, slightly up from the previous week.
As of October 28, NEA tracked 23 active dengue clusters, eight of which were marked with a red alert for having 10 or more cases. Notable clusters included Jurong West Street 74/Westwood Avenue with rapid transmission (67 cases), Jurong East Street 21/Toh Guan Road (96 cases), and Cashew Road (78 cases). Meanwhile, a 65-case cluster in Ang Mo Kio Central 3 was recently closed.
Currently, four dengue serotypes circulate in Singapore, with DENV-2 being dominant since September 2023. Singapore’s largest outbreak occurred in 2020, with 35,315 cases and 32 deaths, attributed to favorable mosquito-breeding weather and increased exposure due to work-from-home arrangements.
Residents in dengue-prone areas are advised to protect against dengue by using insecticide in dark corners, applying repellent, and wearing long-sleeved clothing.
Preventive Measures to Reduce Dengue Transmission:
Following NEA’s ‘B-L-O-C-K’ steps:
- Break up hardened soil to prevent water from pooling.
- Lift and empty flowerpot plates regularly.
- Overturn pails and wipe their rims dry.
- Change water in vases frequently.
- Keep roof gutters clear and add BTI insecticide to control mosquito larvae.
Additionally, practice the ‘S-A-W’ steps for personal protection:
- Spray insecticide in dark corners around the house.
- Apply insect repellent consistently.
- Wear long-sleeved tops and pants to avoid bites.
Adapted from: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/15-dengue-deaths-so-far-in-2024-more-than-double-in-whole-of-2023-nea; https://www.nea.gov.sg/dengue-zika/dengue/dengue-cases
Free Shipping for a Limited Time! Only on POM Marketplace!
Login or Sign Up for an account today!
* Access to POM Marketplace is available to qualified healthcare professionals only.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only, and while we strive for accuracy, POMConnect assumes no liability for errors or omissions. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of POMConnect or its affiliated organizations. The content should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns. POMConnect not endorse specific treatments or external websites linked from this site. POM Marketplace is accessible exclusively to qualified healthcare professionals. Any unauthorized access or use by individuals who do not meet this criteria is prohibited.
