With the onset of the rainy season in Indonesia, there has been an increase in dengue fever cases. Healthcare professionals across the country are reporting a significant rise in the number of infections compared to the same period last year, although on Bali, these figures are not as high yet.
The situation has prompted authorities to declare a state of heightened epidemic alert.
Dengue fever, caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is one of the major health issues in Indonesia. The tropical climate creates ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, and abundant rains lead to the formation of stagnant water bodies where they breed. Symptoms of dengue fever typically include high fever, severe headache, nausea, joint pain, and rash. This year, there have been no reports of the latter symptom in patients. Anhar Hadian, the head of the Bandung City Health Office, stated that most dengue fever cases presented with atypical symptoms. He is concerned that the new dengue symptoms resemble a common cold, causing people to overlook them. However, there is still a fundamental difference.
In severe cases, the disease can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be life-threatening. Since January of this year, only one patient has died from the disease. Although the chances of dying from dengue are not high, the illness itself is severe and can knock a person out of commission for a week or more.
There is also an increase in infections on Bali. Here, the health service has registered 2131 cases of dengue fever with one death from January to mid-March.
The head of the Disease Control Department of the Bali Health Service, I Nyoman Sudiarsa, clarified that there were 709 cases of dengue fever registered in January, 885 in February, and 537 in March so far.
Sudiarsa explained that Gianyar, where Ubud is located, is one of the districts with the highest number of dengue fever cases on the Island of the Gods.
The Ministry of Health reports that the number of dengue cases nationwide has already exceeded the total number registered for the entire year 2023. Some provinces, including South Sumatra, West Java, and Tangerang Regency, are experiencing particularly alarming spikes.
To combat the spread of dengue, experts emphasize the importance of preventive measures, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites: get rid of containers where rainwater collects, such as old tires, buckets, and flower pots. Securely cover water storage containers. Wear long-sleeved clothing in the evenings and use repellents containing DEET or other effective ingredients. If possible, install mosquito screens in the house.
If you experience symptoms of dengue fever, seek medical help immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment play an important role in preventing complications.
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