Although the rest of the world out there is concerned about the latest Coronavirus outbreak, Malaysians should be more worried about the still-rising cases of Dengue fever. We are just near the end of the second month of 2020 and the Ministry of Health has already recorded more than 20,000 dengue cases and a total of 24 deaths in these 7 weeks. 

Despite Dengue fever is a seasonal disease, it should still be taken seriously. As a matter of fact, the current number of deaths for Dengue fever in Malaysia is higher than the number of Coronavirus cases recorded in our country (22 cases).

According to the Crisis Preparedness Response Centre under the Ministry Of Health, Malaysia has a shocking record of a total of 21,190 Dengue cases and 24 deaths in the first 7 weeks of 2020. Although the number of deaths is reduced compared to last year, the number of confirmed Dengue cases is still increasing. Out of 15 states, 7 states have a drastic increase in the number of Dengue cases, whereas the others have shown a decrease. 

The most affected area is Selangor with a total of 13,018 Dengue cases and 8 deaths recorded thus far. Please be careful if you’re staying in the following Dengue-diagnosed Selangor areas: 

- Hulu Langat 

- Klang 

- Gombak 

- Hulu Selangor 

- Sepang 

- Petaling Jaya

With a total of 1,634 dengue cases and 5 deaths, Johor is next in line as the state with the second-highest death rate. This is followed by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya with 3 deaths recorded but with a higher number of dengue cases (1,651 cases). 

When it comes to such ailments, early detection is crucial for the prevention of life-threatening consequences. Please consult a doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms which are followed with fever: 

- Severe headaches

- High fever that could go up to 40 degrees Celcius 

- Pain behind the eyes

- Skin rashes 

- Vomiting and Nausea 

- Joint and Muscle pain

As they always say, prevention is better than cure. Let's all be responsible for our living areas. Make sure to keep the residential area clean and take a few minutes a week to check for and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites in your house.

Last but not least, stay safe everyone!