State health director Dr Othman Warijo said two deaths were recorded so far, while the number of outbreaks increased to 77 compared to 15 for the same period in 2021.

“Of the number of reported outbreaks, there are five hotspots that have been successfully controlled, three outbreaks that are still active while 69 outbreaks have ended.

“A significant increase in dengue cases in Kedah started from Aug 28 to Sept 3 in the three districts of Langkawi, Kota Setar and Kubang Pasu,” he said in a statement.

Among areas with the most dengue cases were Kuah and Ulu Melaka (Langkawi); Mergong, Kuala Kedah, Derga, Alor Malai, Kota Setar, Pengkalan Kundur and Teluk Cengai (Kota Setar); as well as Naga and Jitra (Kubang Pasu).

He said control and prevention activities were carried out for all dengue cases and outbreaks reported in all localities to break the chain of infection. Among activities carried out include inspection of premises, fogging and elimination of mosquito breeding grounds.

“From Jan 1 to Oct 8, 266,420 premises were inspected and 4,972 compounds totalling over RM2.3 million (were) issued to the owners of premises found with Aedes breeding grounds. The compounds were issued under the Destruction of Disease-Carrying Insects Act (APSPP) 1957,” he said.

Othman said to curb the mosquitoes from spreading, local communities must clean their surroundings, destroy Aedes breeding grounds and use aerosol sprays.

“They can also use insecticides, mosquito repellent, and they should seek immediate treatment if they experience symptoms like fever, severe joint pain and rashes,” he said.