AI to detect dengue hotspots early in Malaysia
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad told the Dewan Rakyat today that the predictive AI tool is designed to pinpoint high-risk areas before case numbers rise, enabling more targeted intervention.
'Dengue-related deaths have now exceeded COVID-19 fatalities. So far this year, there have been 21 dengue deaths, compared to just one from COVID-19,' he said during the question-and-answer session.
However, he noted the situation has improved from last year, when Malaysia recorded over 83,000 dengue cases and 117 deaths.
Dr Dzulkefly was responding to a supplementary question from Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi (PN–Kuala Langat), who asked about measures to tackle recurring dengue outbreaks.
He said Selangor continues to record the highest number of cases, followed by Kuala Lumpur. He also highlighted the effectiveness of the Wolbachia mosquito programme, which is being implemented in 45 localities.
The programme has achieved success rates of between 45 per cent and 100 per cent in suppressing Aedes mosquito populations, he added.
Regarding dengue vaccine development, Dr Dzulkefly said that research and development efforts are ongoing at Universiti Malaya under the ministry's direction. - Bernama
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The Star
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The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
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