Perak residents urged to be vigilant against dengue

IPOH: This is the season for the public be to be extra vigilant against dengue.
This is due to the uptrend of dengue cases during the year-end seasonal rains and the movement of people during school holidays.
Perak Health, Public Transport, Non-Islamic Affairs, National Integration and New Villages Committee chairman Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon said: "Based on past trends, this is the time dengue cases will go up."
"The number of cases will increase end of the year and continue into January.

"Past records show a steep hike in the middle of November to February compared to other months. Up to Dec 9 this year, the cumulative number of cases stood at 5,265 including 12 deaths in Perak" he told reporters here today.
However, during the same period last year, there was a drop in the statistics with 3,549 cases and 10 deaths.
Dr Mah said the negative attitude of the public was the main contributing factor to the increase in the number of cases.
"A study revealed illegal rubbish dumping sites and empty lots and premises accounted for 50% of the cases.
"Everyone must play a role and participate in activities to tackle the disease," he added.
Dr Mah said the health department would increase awareness and gotong-royong campaigns.
"Residents should also initiate their own gotong-royong initiatives in their housing areas to clean up the surrounding," he added.