TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan health authorities have warned the public to take preventative measures against dengue fever, as nearly 300 cases have been reported nationwide this year, including the first domestic case reported in Tainan in June.
The high temperatures during summertime have contributed to the transmission of the dengue virus, resulting in 298 dengue fever cases as of Monday (July 10). Among these cases, 267 infections unfolded in Tainan, 19 in Yunlin, 11 in Kaohsiung, and 1 in Pingtung, mostly in central and southern Taiwan.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported 125 dengue cases between July 4 and 10, including 104 cases in Tainan, 13 in Yunlin, 7 in Kaohsiung, and 1 in Pingtung.
Dr. Liu Peng-chih from Shin Kong Wu Ho Su Memorial Hospital said mosquitoes are most active during the early morning or dusk hours. They are primarily attracted to individuals with high body temperatures and dark-colored clothing.
Taiwan typically experiences a peak in dengue fever cases during October and November each year. To prevent mosquito breeding, the CDC has urged the public to wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts, remove containers of stagnant water, and maintain clean surroundings.
The CDC emphasized that symptoms of dengue fever include nausea, repeated vomiting, headaches, stomach or muscle pain, and rashes. These symptoms appear after an incubation period of 3 to 8 days. For more information about dengue fever, please visit the CDC website or call the Communicable Disease Reporting and Consultation Hotline at 1922 for consultation.
