According to statistics compiled by the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC), during August 4 and 10, 2015, a total of 347 new dengue cases, including 343 indigenous dengue cases and 4 imported dengue cases, were confirmed in Taiwan. Among the indigenous cases, 313 were confirmed in Tainan City, 24 were confirmed in Kaohsiung City, 4 were confirmed in Pingtung County, 1 was confirmed in New Taipei City, and 1 was confirmed in Chiayi County. As dengue activity has rapidly increased in southern Taiwan and heavy downpours brought by Typhoon Soudelor during the last weekend have increased the number of places where water accumulates, the public is once again urged to reinforce the removal of vector-breeding sites and ensure the cleanliness of the environment as well as recycle all unwanted containers in order to prevent the transmission of dengue fever.

The number of newly confirmed cases reported in Tainan City last week is 3.1 times more than that reported the week before last week. Most cases (168) were reported in North District. The epidemic is showing signs of expansion to the surrounding districts. On the other hand, imported cases have been reported in New Taipei City and Chiayi County. In addition, several districts in Tainan City reported more cases.

On the other hand, the number of newly confirmed cases reported in Kaohsiung City last week is 2.4 times more than that reported the week before last week. Several districts in Kaohsiung City also reported more cases. 4 additional cases were reported in Pingtung City last week. Residents are urged to take measures to prevent community transmission.

Thus far this year, a cumulative total of 775 indigenous dengue cases have been confirmed in Taiwan. Since this May, a cumulative total of 673 indigenous dengue cases have been confirmed, including 564 cases in Tainan City, 95 cases in Kaohsiung City, 5 in Pingtung County, 3 cases in Hsinchu County, 3 cases in Chiayi County, 2 cases in Taichung City, and 1 in New Taipei City. As thoroughly eliminating vector breeding sources is the most effective way to prevent dengue fever, the public is once again urged to reinforce the removing of vector-breeding sites in and around their residences to ward off infection and ensure their own health and the health of others. If symptoms such as fever, headache, retroorbital pain, myalgia, arthralgia, and rash develop, please seek immediate medical attention and inform the doctor of any relevant medical history, recent travel history and activity to facilitate prompt diagnosis and case reporting. For any questions or further information, please visit the Taiwan CDC’s website at http://www.cdc.gov.tw or call the toll-free Communicable Disease Reporting and Care Hotline, 1922 (or 0800-001922).