Bali Takes Decisive Action Against Dengue Threat

DENPASAR – In a proactive move to combat the persistent threat of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), Bali has launched a thorough community education program. This initiative,spearheaded by the PKK TP of Bali Province and supported by the Enesis Group,aims to significantly reduce the incidence of dengue fever across the island.

Ny. Seniasih Giri Prasta, representing the TP PKK of Bali province, and Deputy Governor of Bali, Nyoman Giri Prasta, formally announced the collaborative effort, emphasizing the critical role of private sector involvement in public health initiatives. The launch event, held at the Inna Bali Heritage Hotel Pendopo area on Thursday, March 20, 2025, signaled a renewed commitment to tackling the mosquito-borne disease.

Deputy Giri Prasta underscored the importance of this partnership, stating, “more and more peopel are moving in giving education to prevent DBD then in the future the case DBD can be pressed until there is no more DBD in Bali.” This statement highlights the ambitious goal of eradicating dengue fever from the island through widespread education and preventative measures.

A Multi-Faceted Approach to Dengue Prevention

The launch event was attended by key figures including Chro Enesis Group, Bambang Cahyono, Deputy mayor of denpasar, I kadek Agus Arya Wibawa and Ny. ayu Kristi Arya Wibawa Head, Bali Provincial Health Office, denpasar City and Gianyar City and OPD heads in the Provincial Government of Bali, Denpasar City, Gianyar Regency and Badung Regency, demonstrating broad support for the program across various levels of government and public health organizations.

Deputy Giri Prasta emphasized that dengue fever is a contagious disease that often leads to extraordinary events (KLB) in Bali. Given Bali’s status as an endemic area, the Provincial Government, through its Health Office, has already implemented anticipatory measures, including PSN bluff with 3M Plus, and the “1 house movement 1 Jumantik” program, alongside other educational initiatives.

The “3M Plus” strategy, a cornerstone of Bali’s dengue prevention efforts, focuses on:

• Menguras (Draining): Regularly emptying and scrubbing containers that can hold water, such as buckets, flower pots, and tires.
• Menutup (Covering): Covering water storage containers tightly to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.
• Memanfaatkan Kembali (Recycling): Recycling or properly disposing of items that could collect water.

The “Plus” refers to additional preventative measures, including using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms develop.

Private Sector Stepping Up: Enesis Group’s Commitment

The Enesis Group, a prominent consumer goods company, is playing a crucial role in supporting Bali’s dengue prevention efforts. Their involvement highlights the growing recognition of the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing public health challenges.

By providing resources, expertise, and financial support, the Enesis Group is helping to amplify the reach and impact of the community education program.This collaboration serves as a model for other businesses to engage in proactive measures to protect the health and well-being of the communities they serve.

Looking Ahead: A Dengue-Free Bali?

Bali’s ambitious goal of becoming dengue-free faces several challenges, including consistent behavioral change, environmental factors, and the potential spread of the disease from visitors. Though, with a sustained and comprehensive approach, this goal is not unattainable.

The success of the program hinges on the active participation of individuals, families, and communities. By embracing the “3M plus” strategy and working together to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, Bali can significantly reduce the burden of dengue fever and create a healthier habitat for its residents and visitors.

One innovative idea being explored is making mosquito repellent, such as Soffell, a desirable souvenir for tourists. This would not only provide visitors with protection against mosquito bites but also promote awareness of dengue prevention measures.

Dengue Fever: A Global Health Challenge

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that affects millions of people worldwide each year. according to the World Health Institution (WHO), the incidence of dengue has increased dramatically in recent decades, making it a major public health concern.

Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever,severe headache,muscle and joint pain,nausea,vomiting,and rash.In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be life-threatening.

There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, and management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Prevention is key, and measures such as mosquito control and personal protection are essential to reduce the risk of infection.

Practical Applications for U.S. Readers

While dengue fever is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, it is also a concern in the United States, especially in areas such as Florida, Texas, and Hawaii. Travelers returning from dengue-endemic countries can also introduce the virus to new areas.

The lessons learned from Bali’s dengue prevention program can be applied in the U.S.to reduce the risk of dengue transmission.These include:

• community Education: Raising awareness of dengue fever and its prevention through public health campaigns and educational materials.
• vector Control: Implementing mosquito control measures, such as spraying insecticides and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
• Personal Protection: Encouraging the use of mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding areas with high mosquito populations.
• Travel Precautions: Advising travelers to take precautions against mosquito bites when visiting dengue-endemic countries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Travelers should also wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and stay in air-conditioned or screened rooms.

Local health departments can implement community-based programs, similar to the jumantik model in Bali, and partner with local businesses to promote awareness and vector control. A key aspect of this should be consistent public health messaging, reinforced by local campaigns, which provides a good example of an effective approach in Bali.

According to the CDC, “Travelers should absolutely be well-informed to use EPA-registered repellents, wear protective clothing, and take extra care in areas with known outbreaks” [[4]].

Bali’s Urgent Call to arms: Can Community Education Finally Conquer Dengue Fever?

Bali’s proactive approach to dengue prevention serves as a reminder that community engagement and public-private partnerships are essential to tackling public health challenges. By empowering individuals to take action and working together to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, bali is striving to create a healthier and safer environment for its residents and visitors.

The success of Bali’s program will depend on sustained commitment, ongoing education, and continuous adaptation to changing environmental conditions.Though, with the dedication of the government, the private sector, and the community, a dengue-free Bali might potentially be within reach.

As dengue fever becomes an increasing global threat, as noted in research from Monash University [[1]], the lessons learned from Bali’s experience can inform and inspire other regions to implement effective prevention strategies and protect their populations from this debilitating disease.