By MP for Aljunied GRC, Sylvia Lim
[Delivered in Committee of Supply on 11 March 2015]
This is the third year in a row that I have spoken on dengue, as this continues to be a concern in my ward, where dengue clusters continue to emerge from time to time, especially in the vicinity of Serangoon Gardens, Rosyth and Kovan.
Despite the best efforts of residents and NEA officers to do source eradication, the spread of dengue has persisted. Ministry of Health data shows the total number of reported cases of dengue in 2014 was 18,315. This was down from the 2013 figure of 22,101. However, both 2013 and 2014 figures were a massive jump from 2012 where only 4,602 dengue cases were reported. In the first 7 weeks of 2015 alone, there were 1,468 reported cases of dengue.
It is vital to pursue other responses.
We are aware that there is a local research scene on dengue immunology, on vaccines and on anti-viral drugs. The Sanofi vaccine has been on trial in Singapore since 2009. The Ministry previously seemed to be cautious about its prospects. Would the Minister give us an update on the state of vaccine or drug research relevant to Singapore?
In addition, in October last year, the Dengue Expert Advisory Panel appointed by the Government supported the use of Wolbachia technology to control the Aedes mosquito population. Is there a timeline for field trials, and what further progress has been made? Finally, is the government looking at any other counter-dengue measures?