Dengue on the rise in Kedah

A total of 513 dengue cases were reported since the beginning of January 2017 to May 6 with an increase of 67.1 per cent compared to 307 cases in the same period last year.

Kedah Health Department, in a statement said that eight districts showed a significant increase in such cases.

According to the State Health Department director, Datuk Dr Norhizan Ismail, Kulim recorded a total of 131 cases compared to 48 cases in the past.

He also said Kuala Muda recorded a total of 189 cases with an increase of 61 cases, Kubang Pasu with an increase of 21 from 37 cases and Sik 19 with an increase of 16 cases.

He added that three districts recorded a decrease in number of dengue cases including Pendang, Yan and Kota Setar.

According to Dr Norhizan, the department has implemented measures to prevent and control dengue by conducting Aedes breeding examination on 165, 571 premises across the state.

Out of these, 3,722 premises were found to have larvae breeding.

A total of 1, 811 compounds amounting to RM905,500 were issued under the Destruction of Disease Bearing Insects Act 1975.

A total of 361 notices were also issued under Section 8 for cleaning instructions.