Dengue cases are on the rise in Singapore. As of July 20, there were 8,020 dengue cases and a total of 9 deaths according to Singapore’s Ministry of Health and its National Environment Agency. The total number of dengue cases reported this year is about five times more than that reported in the same period last year.
The peak dengue season in Singapore usually stretches from June to October, with the warmer weather encouraging mosquitoes to breed if potential breeding habitats are not removed. Singapore’s national average of mosquito breeding detected in homes is 60 per cent.
Taiwanese nationals in Singapore are advised to take the following actions:
- Check the interior and exterior of your homes for potential mosquito breeding habitats, especially after it rains.
- Wear light-colored clothing that covers the arms and legs, especially during the early morning and late afternoon, when risk of being bitten is the highest.
- Use insect repellent.
- Be mindful of the latest updates and news on dengue.
Symptoms of dengue may include vomiting, high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, extreme muscle and joint pain, rash, mild bleeding, and mild to severe or easy bruising. Persons exhibiting symptoms should seek the attention of a medical doctor immediately. Upon your return to Taiwan, if you develop fever within two weeks of travel to Singapore, you should specify to your health care provider that you have been to a dengue zone.