Following a recent uptick in dengue fever cases, several provincial health departments have launched pesticide spraying campaigns to eradicate mosquito breeding grounds, while calling on the public to remain vigilant to prevent further outbreaks. This year’s dengue figures are reported to be about twice as high as the 2022 statistics.

Prak Von, director of the Kampong Chhnang provincial health department, said on September 20 that officials are conducting an outreach programme in the community to educate people on the risks associated with the disease. He urged people to eliminate potential mosquito breeding habitats, such as standing water, in tanks or vehicle tyres.

“As of the 37th week of the year, Kampong Chhnang has seen 405 cases of dengue, with one death. This is an increase on last year’s figures, so I am calling on people to wipe out all possible mosquito breeding sites,” he said.

His Kratie province counterpart Ngy Bunlen said officials there are also conducting outreach education and teaching people about prevention measures, as well as spraying pesticide.

Although the number of dengue cases in Kratie has not been confirmed, Bunlen called for caution.

“The department has advised people to take care of their children. In case of any suspicious fevers, children should be brought to the nearest health centre,” he said.

Several other provincial health departments are carrying out similar operations, including in Banteay Meanchey, Pailin, Oddar Meanchey, Siem Reap and Pursat provinces.

According to Leang Rithea, director of the Ministry of Health’s National Dengue Control Programme (NDCP), Cambodia had recorded nearly 20,000 cases of dengue fever, including 34 fatalities, from January to September 18 this year.

The figures were roughly double those reported in the same period last year.