Community advised to keep vigilant on dengue

Hanoi (VNA) – Despite a recent sharp fall in the number of dengue cases, the community should not neglect preventive measures against the epidemics, warned the Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health.

According to the department, from October 30-November 5, as many as 2,744 dengue cases were reported across the country, down 17.9 percent over the previous week, without fatality.

A downturn was seen in 47 out of 63 provinces and cities nationwide, while a slight increase was recorded in only three southern provinces, namely An Giang, Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Tay Ninh.

Although cooler weather has recently reduced mosquitoes in the northern region, the southern and central regions are still in a peak season of dengue, the department said.

In Hanoi, the ministry’s Steering Committee for Epidemic Prevention and Control has kept a close watch on developments of the disease, while stepping up the killing of mosquitoes and larva in risky areas. The ministry has also provided 40 additional chemical spraying machines and 30 large-capacity machines to serve these activities.

People are advised to take measures to kill mosquitoes and larva, and protect themselves from mosquitoes, while coordinating with authorities in spraying anti-mosquito chemicals. They are also asked to reach health care facilities promptly for testing and treatment when finding any symptoms of dengue such as fever and joint paint.-VNA