n the lead-up to October 2023, Malaysia witnessed a staggering 100.5% surge in dengue cases, reaching a cumulative total of 96,443 cases. This marked a significant rise from the 48,109 cases reported in 2022. The dengue situation in Malaysia has been escalating, with 64,078 cases recorded in 2022, 26,365 cases in 2021, and 90,304 cases in 2020.

Tragically, the toll from dengue-related complications has also increased, with a total of 73 deaths reported by October 22, 2023, compared to 29 deaths during the same period in 2022. The month of October 2023 witnessed a daily average of more than 300 cases, indicating a critical public health concern.

Nationwide, there are currently 73 dengue hotspot areas, with Selangor state bearing the brunt with 51 hotspots, while other states have single-digit counts. Within Selangor, the districts of Petaling and Hulu Langat have reported the highest number of cases. In Petaling, the sub-districts most severely affected are Petaling (5,570 cases), Damansara (4,930 cases), and Sungai Buloh (4,160 cases).

As of November 17, 2023, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has reported on the alarming dengue situation, urging swift and effective measures to curb the outbreak and protect public health.