Community Mobilized as Health Officials Respond to Rising Dengue Cases

Bintuni Bay, West Papua Province – Responding to a concerning rise in dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) cases, the Bintuni Bay District Health Office, in conjunction with the Manimeri Puskesmas (community health center), launched a targeted fogging operation in Line 2, Banjar Ausoy Village, Manimeri District, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The initiative aims to curb the spread of the mosquito-borne illness by eliminating adult Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the primary vectors of the dengue virus.

Residents Voice Concerns, Welcome Intervention

The fogging campaign comes amid growing anxieties among residents, who have observed a marked increase in mosquito populations in recent months. Muhammad Uswanas, a resident of Line 2, expressed his relief at the swift action taken by health officials. I positively welcomed this activity. Before spraying, I had prepared the entire room in the house, including waterways around the house, Uswanas said, highlighting the community’s proactive engagement in the effort.

According to Uswanas,data from the Health Office indicates that three residents have already been infected with DHF,underscoring the urgency of the situation. Kasini, another resident, echoed Uswanas’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the government’s prompt response. Since there is a DHF case in this habitat, I thank the Health Office, he stated.

fogging Operation Details and Community Engagement

The fogging operation commenced at 9 a.m. Central European Time (CET) and was met with widespread approval from the community. Yono, the field supervisor from the Bintuni Teluk District Health Office, explained that the initiative was triggered by reports from the SP 4 Puskesmas (Manimeri) concerning DHF cases in Path 2. We are from the field of education and handling of fogging due to case reports.This activity will be carried out twice,namely today and the following week, Yono clarified.

The fogging process involves the dispersal of insecticide-laden smoke or fog into the air, targeting adult mosquitoes.Health officials emphasize that this is a crucial step in breaking the transmission cycle of the dengue virus.

Call for Sustained Preventive Measures

Beyond the immediate fogging campaign, health officials are urging residents to adopt and maintain a clean and healthy lifestyle to prevent future outbreaks. Yono emphasized the importance of community participation in long-term disease prevention. He also appealed to the community to maintain a clean and healthy lifestyle to prevent the spread of disease.

Field observations confirm that health workers are meticulously spraying inside homes, around residential properties, and in water channels, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Understanding Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe, flu-like illness that can be fatal if left untreated. It is caused by any of four related dengue viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rash. In severe cases, DHF can lead to bleeding, organ damage, and death.

FAQ: Dengue Fever and Prevention

• What is dengue fever? Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection causing flu-like illness.
• How is dengue fever transmitted? Through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito.
• What are the symptoms of dengue fever? High fever, severe headache, joint pain, and rash.
• How can I prevent dengue fever? Avoid mosquito bites,eliminate standing water,and support community fogging efforts.
• Is there a vaccine for dengue fever? Yes, but it is not universally recommended. Consult your doctor.