PHNOM PENH: Communities across the Mekong region face heightened seasonal health threats from dengue and hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) amid changing rainfall patterns and soaring temperatures that can influence disease transmission.
Health authorities in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam are raising alerts as the diseases become a serious public health threat, especially among children.
Vietnam’s Health Ministry revealed that 100,000 cases of HFMD have been reported so far this year, with 3,000 cases registered weekly. The number is 2.5 times higher than during the same period last year.
"With infections remaining high and the risk expected to increase in September and October, consistent hygiene practices and early detection at home and school are essential to limiting transmission and protecting children’s health,” Vietnamplus reported.
In neighbouring Laos, health officials recorded 4,371 dengue cases nationwide as of August 24, according to Lao News Agency.
Dengue is seasonal in Laos, with cases often rising during the May-August rainy season.
"Changing weather patterns and irregular rainfall can also create favourable conditions for mosquito breeding,” said the news agency.
Cambodia, meanwhile, is also confronting a heavy dengue burden. Cambodian health authorities are warning of rising cases of dengue and HFMD.
According to the World Health Organization in its dengue monitoring report, 54,697 dengue cases, including 72 deaths, have been reported as of Aug 2.
Myanmar, too, has felt the public health impact of the monsoon. About 90 people were hospitalised at the Yangon General Hospital for diarrhoea in mid-August. The incident highlighted the wider health risks associated with heavy rains, flooding, and contaminated water.
Across the Mekong, the health impact of extreme and erratic weather extends beyond mosquito-borne diseases. High temperatures, heavy rainfall, flooding and prolonged dry spells are contributing to the spread of infectious diseases, according to health experts. - Bernama
