Dengue-related deaths in Johor raise concern

JOHOR BARU: The Johor government has voiced concern over the 20 dengue-related deaths so far this year.

There were 15 deaths during the same period last year (January to June), said Health and Environment Committee chairman R. Vidyananthan.

“According to the state Health Department statistics, a total of 5,107 dengue fever cases were recorded until June 27.

“When compared to the 5,142 cases (in the corresponding period) last year, the drop is not that significant,” he said in a statement yesterday.

The districts which recorded the highest number of dengue cases were Johor Baru with 80.2%, followed by Kulai (3.9%), Kluang (3.7%), Segamat (3.3%), Batu Pahat (2.4%), Mersing (2.1%), Kota Tinggi (1.4%), Muar (1.1%), Pontian (0.9%) and Tangkak (0.9%).

Vidyananthan attributed this to a neglect in cleanliness, particularly with garbage disposal. This had led to breeding grounds for mosquitoes, he said. Vidyananthan said the public must constantly ensure their surrounding was kept tidy.

“Each household is recommended to spend at least 10 minutes a week to search for stagnant water and potential breeding spots in and around their residence,” he said.

Vidyanathan said those who failed to ensure their property was free of Aedes breeding grounds face a compound of RM500.

If they failed to settle the fine, they may be brought to court and face a heftier fine of RM10,000, he said.