Kampong Chhnang Province Sees 178% Surge in Dengue Fever Cases Year-on-Year

Kampong Chhnang Province in Cambodia is facing a significant surge in dengue fever cases, with a reported increase of approximately 178% compared to the same period last year. According to a report from the Provincial Department of Health, this alarming rise was observed up to the 35th week of the year. However, it is noted that cases have decreased by 4 compared to the 34th week. The report from the Provincial Department of Health further indicated that during the 35th week, 277 dengue fever patients were receiving treatment within the province, a decrease of 4 cases from the 4th week. From the 1st week to the 35th week of the year, a total of 3,511 dengue fever cases were recorded, equating to an incidence rate of 484 cases per 100,000 population. Among these, 2,746 patients were treated within the province, with 1,313 being female. No deaths were reported from cases treated within the province. In contrast, 765 cases sought treatment outside the province, resulting in 5 fatalities. When comparing the number of hospitalized cases within the province during the 35th week of this year to the same week in 2025, there was an increase of 178%, with 989 cases recorded in 2025. The National Center for Entomology, Parasitology and Vector Control attributes this surge to climate change and variations in the dengue virus strains. The detailed analysis reveals that dengue fever cases in the 35th week were widespread across all districts and municipalities in the province. Roluos Phier district reported the highest number of dengue fever cases, followed by Boribo district, Kampong Chhnang city, Tuek Phos district, and Kampong Leng district. The district with the lowest incidence rate was Chulkiri. Dr. Prak Von, Director of the Provincial Department of Health, stated that measures are being implemented, including the spraying of insecticides to eliminate mosquitoes in affected areas throughout the province, particularly in regions with higher case numbers. His team is also distributing Albert tablets (larvicides) to households. Concurrently, a strong appeal is being made to the public to exercise high vigilance against dengue fever, described as a dangerous and aggressive disease. Citizens are urged to clean their surroundings, eliminate stagnant water in discarded tires and cans, clear overgrown vegetation that serves as mosquito habitats, and use larvicides in water containers. It is also recommended to sleep under mosquito nets, especially during the day. Individuals suspecting dengue fever are advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest provincial or district referral hospital. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer