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Jakarta administration warns of rising dengue fever cases
The Jakarta administration is warning residents of a potential spike in dengue fever cases by the end of April. Over 500 cases have been reported in East Jakarta.
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A health worker sprays pesticide on May 15, 2024, to prevent the spread of dengue in a residential area of Jakarta. The Jakarta administration is warning residents of a potential spike in dengue fever cases by the end of April. (Reuters/Willy Kurniawan)
T
he Jakarta city government is preparing for a surge in dengue fever cases citywide by the end of the month, as the incidence of the viral disease is expected to peak following the end of the rainy season.
Head of surveillance, epidemiology and immunization at the Jakarta Health Agency Ngabila Salama said that the increase in cases is mainly due to humid conditions that support mosquito, egg and larvae reproduction, a lack of public awareness of prevention methods and seasonal illnesses lowering immunity.
"The dengue case cycle typically peaks a month after the peak of the rainy season. If March has the heaviest rains, then April is usually the peak," Ngabila said on Tuesday, as quoted by Kompas.com.
"Last year, El Niño extended the dry season, which increased the risk of cases at the start of this [year’s] rainy season."
Ngabila advised the public to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds routinely. She explained that the rise in dengue fever cases was influenced by various factors such as weather, humidity and community behavior.
The Jakarta Health Agency said most dengue fever cases happen to school-aged children who spend plenty of time outdoors. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the carrier of this disease, are most active from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
"We encourage each household to appoint one person, the mother, father, child or housekeeper, as a mosquito larvae monitor. The checks should be done every Friday at 10 a.m. for at least 10 weeks," Ngabila said.
