Serei Sophorn Referral Hospital Declares Dengue Fever Emergency Amidst Rising Cases

AKP Banteay Meanchey, July 12, 2026 -- Dengue fever is becoming a worrying topic for this rainy season, after Serei Sophorn Referral Hospital in Banteay Meanchey Province observed a sharp increase in the number of child patients admitted for treatment in the second week of July 2026. Dr. Iav Taravuth, Director of Serei Sophorn Referral Hospital, stated that out of a total of 35 children currently undergoing treatment at the hospital, as many as 19 have been diagnosed with dengue fever. He stressed that this disease cannot be taken lightly, even in its mild form; it requires rest and treatment under the supervision of specialized medical professionals, and self-treatment at home is strictly prohibited. To prevent the spread and reduce the risk to life, Dr. Le Chansangvat, Director of the Provincial Department of Health, issued strict instructions with three key measures that every citizen must implement regularly: 1. Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds is the most important measure. Citizens must collectively collect discarded cans, coconut shells, car and motorcycle tires, and other water-holding objects around their homes and bury or burn them. Simultaneously, water jars or tanks must be washed at least once a week, abate medicine should be used, and seven-colored fish should be released to eliminate larvae. 2. Protecting oneself from mosquito bites requires the habit of wearing long sleeves and pants and sleeping in mosquito nets at all times, both day and night, as Aedes mosquitoes are highly active during the day. Mosquito repellent lotions or coils can be used in areas with many mosquitoes. 3. Arranging home environments, cutting down bushes and grass around the house, and opening windows to allow sunlight to enter can reduce mosquito hiding places. The most crucial point that the Department of Health is most concerned about is "the misuse of medication." Dr. Le Chansangvat strongly warned that if children have symptoms of high fever (39-40°C) for 2 to 7 days, with a red face or red spots on the skin, do not buy antipyretic drugs like Aspirin or Ibuprofen for them, as it can cause severe bleeding and be life-threatening. The Department of Health of Banteay Meanchey Provincial Administration appeals to all authorities and citizens to participate in implementing the slogan "I and my family are model families because my house has no mosquito larvae" to build a healthy and dengue-free community this rainy season. -- By Chun Sarath