South Sumatra Grapples with Record-High Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Cases in 2024
PALEMBANG—South Sumatra is facing an alarming surge in dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) cases, with 2024 marking the highest incidence in recent years. According to Ira Primadesa Ogahtiyah, Head of the South Sumatra Health Office of Disease Prevention and Control, the region recorded a staggering 6,263 cases last year, resulting in 37 fatalities.
the numbers paint a grim picture. In 2021,there were 1,135 cases with 3 deaths. By 2022, this figure nearly tripled to 2,854 cases and 31 deaths.Although 2023 saw a slight dip to 2,804 cases and 22 deaths, the situation worsened considerably in 2024, with a sharp increase of 3,459 cases compared to the previous year.
Palembang, the capital city of South Sumatra, bore the brunt of the outbreak, reporting 1,268 cases and 14 deaths. Other regions also saw concerning numbers: Banyuasin (634 cases), Musi Banyuasin (507 cases), Ogan Komering Ulu Timur (503 cases), and Prabumulih (455 cases). Smaller districts like Pagar Alam and Musi Rawas Utara reported 84 and 141 cases, respectively.The death toll was equally distressing. Palembang accounted for 14 deaths, followed by Ogan Komering Ulu (8 deaths) and Banyuasin (4 deaths). Despite the higher mortality rate in 2024, the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) dropped to 0.59%, down from 0.70% in previous years.
Efforts to curb the outbreak are in full swing.The South Sumatra Health Office has implemented a multi-pronged approach, including massive public awareness campaigns, mosquito nest eradication through water cleaning, and the distribution of larvasida and insecticides like Cynoff. Innovative strategies such as the development of Wolbachia, which has shown to reduce dengue pain by 77% and hospitalizations by 86%, are also being prioritized.
“To reduce the risk, we also expect residents to use mosquito repellent lotions and install mosquito nets,” Ogahtiyah emphasized.The table below summarizes the DHF cases and fatalities across South sumatra in 2024:
| Region | Cases | Deaths |
|————————–|———–|————|
| Palembang | 1,268 | 14 |
| Banyuasin | 634 | 4 |
| Musi Banyuasin | 507 | 3 |
| Ogan Komering Ulu Timur | 503 | – |
| Prabumulih | 455 | – |
| Pagar Alam | 84 | 1 |
As South Sumatra battles this public health crisis, the focus remains on prevention and community engagement.Residents are urged to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their families from this deadly disease.
For more information on dengue prevention and control, visit the latest research on climate variability and dengue incidence.
South Sumatra Grapples with Record-High Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Cases in 2024
Table of Contents
PALEMBANG—South Sumatra is facing an alarming surge in dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) cases, with 2024 marking the highest incidence in recent years. According to Ira Primadesa Ogahtiyah, Head of the South sumatra Health office of Disease Prevention and Control, the region recorded a staggering 6,263 cases last year, resulting in 37 fatalities. In this exclusive interview, Senior editor John Carter of world-today-news.com speaks with Dr. Rina Wijaya, a leading public health expert, to understand the crisis better and explore effective prevention strategies.
The Current Situation in South Sumatra
John Carter: Dr. Wijaya, thank you for joining us. Could you provide an overview of the dengue situation in South Sumatra this year? What makes 2024 particularly concerning?
Dr. Rina Wijaya: Thank you, John. The situation is indeed alarming. South Sumatra has seen a dramatic increase in dengue cases in 2024, with 6,263 cases reported—a sharp rise from previous years. Palembang, the capital city, is the hardest hit, with 1,268 cases and 14 deaths. Other regions like Banyuasin and Musi Banyuasin also report notable numbers. The scale of the outbreak is unprecedented, and the high number of fatalities underscores the urgency of the crisis.
Factors Contributing to the Surge
John Carter: What factors have contributed to this surge in dengue cases? Are there environmental or societal trends at play?
Dr. Rina Wijaya: Several factors are at play. Climate variability has been a major contributor. Increased rainfall and humidity create ideal breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vector for dengue. Urbanization and poor waste management also exacerbate the issue, as stagnant water in containers and trash becomes breeding sites. Additionally, public awareness about preventive measures remains low in many communities, which increases vulnerability.
efforts to Combat the Outbreak
John Carter: What steps are being taken by the South Sumatra Health Office to address the outbreak? Are there any innovative strategies being implemented?
Dr. Rina Wijaya: The Health Office has adopted a multi-pronged approach. Massive public awareness campaigns are underway to educate residents about eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, larvasida and insecticides like Cynoff are being distributed. One particularly innovative strategy is the use of Wolbachia, a bacterium that has shown remarkable efficacy in reducing dengue transmission by up to 77%. These efforts are complemented by community engagement initiatives to ensure everyone plays a role in prevention.
the Role of Community Engagement
John Carter: how critical is community involvement in combating dengue? What can individuals do to protect themselves and their families?
Dr. Rina Wijaya: Community engagement is absolutely essential. Dengue prevention requires collective action. Residents must take proactive measures, such as regularly cleaning water containers, using mosquito repellent lotions, and installing mosquito nets. Early detection of symptoms and prompt medical attention are also crucial. When communities work together, the impact of prevention efforts is considerably amplified.
looking Ahead
John Carter: What are the key takeaways from the current crisis, and what lessons can be applied to future dengue outbreaks?
Dr. Rina Wijaya: The key takeaway is the importance of preparedness and sustained prevention efforts.We must invest in research, innovative solutions like Wolbachia, and robust public health infrastructure. Equally crucial is fostering a culture of awareness and duty at the community level. Dengue is a preventable disease, but it requires consistent and coordinated action from all stakeholders.
John Carter: Thank you, Dr. Wijaya,for your insights. We hope your expertise will help raise awareness and drive action to combat this crisis.
Dr. Rina Wijaya: Thank you, John. It’s crucial that we all work together to protect our communities from this deadly disease.
Summary: South Sumatra is battling a record-high dengue outbreak in 2024, with 6,263 cases and 37 fatalities. Dr. Rina Wijaya emphasizes the need for community engagement, innovative strategies like Wolbachia, and sustained public health efforts to combat the crisis effectively.
