Brunei records increase in mosquito-borne diseases

AS many as 349 cases of mosquito-borne diseases have been reported this year, compared to 290 cases in 2012.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Health yesterday, other countries in the region have also documented a rise in cases due to the high amount of rainfall that have led to more mosquito breeding sites.

The majority of dengue fever cases in the Sultanate were recorded in Brunei-Muara, while a small number was also reported in other districts.

However the situation is currently under control, said the ministry. In the statement, MoH gave its assurance that the Health Services Department has undertaken active steps to control and prevent mosquito-borne diseases, particularly contact detection, eradication of mosquito breeding sites, insecticide spraying as well as raising public awareness.

Among the symptoms of dengue infection are fever, headaches, skin rashes, muscle and joint pain as well as pain in the eyelids. Occasionally, the patient may also experience more severe symptoms such as stomach pains, nausea, vomiting and bleeding problems.

The public are advised to take on a number of preventative measures, namely to wipe out mosquito breeding sites and to seek medical treatment if they are showing any listed symptoms. Mosquitoes are known to breed in pools of water in places such as flower vases; clogged drains; plastic bottles and used tyres among others.

The public were urged to destroy mosquito breeding sites by throwing away the water in affected areas then cleaning it to remove remnants of mosquito eggs.

Dipetik dari - The Brunei Times