Browsing: Infectious Disease

Indonesia is on high alert as new COVID-19 variants KP.1 and KP.2 have been found in Singapore and pose a looming threat. The persistent COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose a significant global health challenge, with new variants emerging and spreading worldwide. In particular, Singapore has recently experienced a notable surge in cases attributed to the KP.1 and KP.2 variants, which has raised considerable concerns about their potential spread to neighbouring countries, including Indonesia. Due to the high frequency of travel between the two nations, these variants are likely to enter Indonesia. 

Dengue fever cases in Indonesia have skyrocketed by a staggering 200% in 2024, leaving healthcare facilities overwhelmed. By April, over 621 dengue deaths had been reported, highlighting the urgent need to contain the spread of this mosquito-borne viral illness.

A heartbreaking incident has left a family in the Philippines mourning the loss of their 13-year-old daughter, who tragically succumbed to rabies two months after being bitten by a stray dog.

In a concerning development, malaria cases in the Philippines nearly doubled in 2023 compared to the previous year, with climate change emerging as a significant contributing factor, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

In response to a concerning surge in measles cases, particularly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), health authorities have launched an extensive house-to-house vaccination drive.

Department of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa issued a stark warning highlighting the concerning surge in tuberculosis (TB) cases across the Philippines. 

In a concerning development for public health, Japan has confirmed its first case of human-to-human transmission of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), a potentially lethal tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases announced that a young doctor, aged in his 20s, contracted the virus following the treatment of a patient who succumbed to the disease in April 2023.

The receipt of the P145.5 million grant signifies a significant milestone in the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to fortify COVID-19 vaccination and routine immunisation programs. Therefore, the collaboration endeavours to bridge immunisation gaps and achieve optimal vaccination coverage rates with a targeted approach. Additionally, it exhibits a commitment to gender responsiveness and collaborative partnerships. As the nation navigates the complexities of the pandemic, collective action and solidarity remain pivotal in ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for all Filipinos, safeguarding the health and well-being of current and future generations alike.

 The Malaysian Auditor General’s 2022 report saw a lack of positive results in dengue control. Meanwhile, it also noted scientific evidence for fogging remains weak.

The Alliance reiterates the imperative of addressing TB as a top global health priority. Alarming figures show that 1.5 million people die from TB-related causes annually, with millions more affected. Urgent concerted efforts are necessary to stem the tide of this relentless disease. The Philippines’ steadfast commitment to TB elimination resonates deeply with its broader public health agenda. This champions the principles of accessible and quality healthcare for all its citizens, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location.