Pails filled with water like this have to be emptied before people leave for their hometowns over the Raya break, to eliminate Aedes mosquitoes’ breeding grounds. — Filepic
AHEAD of the festive holidays when many will be returning to their hometowns, Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) is advising residents to ensure their homes are clean and free of potential mosquito breeding grounds.
Its Corporate and Public Relations Division head Shahrin Ahmad said in a statement that based on past experience, there was usually a spike in dengue cases after a long festive holiday.
“This is because homeowners did not clean their house compounds (before leaving for the holidays) and let water stagnate in areas where water could pool, such as bath tubs, water tanks and flower pots.
“Such containers may become Aedes mosquitoes’ breeding grounds,” he said.
MBSA suggested that to prevent Aedes mosquitoes from breeding, households should remove all water containers from inside and outside their dwellings as well as ensure all water tanks, flower pots and similar containers do not have mosquito larvae.
It also advised that larvicide be added to containers where water could collect, such as cisterns, while empty cans, polystyrene containers, bottles and used tyres should be disposed of.
“The public is advised to use insect repellent if they are outdoors, to reduce the chances of getting bitten by mosquitoes.
“They are also advised to immediately seek treatment at a hospital if they suspect they have dengue,” said Shahrin.
Among the signs and symptoms of dengue are sudden high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, pain behind the eyes as well as rashes or bleeding on the body, nose and mouth, he added.
MBSA, he said, was serious in dealing with the dengue problem and hoped to get the community’s cooperation in ensuring all areas under its purview were free from dengue.
Residents were also reminded to spend 10 minutes a week to ensure the inside and outside of their houses are clean.
MBSA’s Pantas Operation Room will operate 24 hours, even during the festive holidays.
Those who want to lodge a complaint on matters such as flash floods, fallen trees and landslips can call 03-5510 5811.
