M'sia could face largest dengue epidemic ever

KUALA LUMPUR: The country is probably facing the largest dengue epidemic it has ever seen, with over 40,000 cases reported and 157 deaths this year.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam said the number was staggering compared the same period last year.
"There are double the deaths this year as compared to the same period last year, and 30% more cases reported, which is much higher than last year," he said.
Subramaniam added that a lot of the new cases reported this year are a type not seen before.
"Now, those who are dying are more unusual cases. This is the type that we have not encountered.
"Last time, it was haemorrhagic (bleeding) dengue. Now there is liver failure, pneumonia, brain infection ... The virus behavior is different now," he said, adding that some of the victims are second time dengue patients, which he claims to be more serious.
"More people are getting second time dengue now," he said.
Subramaniam added that the ministry has yet to find a permanent method to eradicate the mosquitoes, and that the best way currently is to control them.
"There's a lot of options in the world to find vaccines or drugs, but till today, nothing is suitable for us.
"However, we can control these mosquitoes, like the breeding sites. We are being more strict now on construction sites, giving them a warning for the first time, and a notice to close down for second time offences," he added.