Dengue cases in Laos have risen to 7,376 with 12 deaths since January, according to a report from the Lao Ministry of Health.
The highest number of 1,695 dengue patients were recorded in the Lao capital Vientiane, according to a report from the Center of Information and Education for health under the Lao Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday.
A total of 855 cases were reported in Bolikhamxay province, 702 cases in Bokeo province and 693 cases in Vientiane province.
The 12 deaths included four in Lao capital Vientiane, two in Bolikhamxay and Khammuan respectively, and one each in Xayaboury, Xieng Khuang, Savannakhet, and Phongsaly.
The Lao Ministry of Health urged authorities and people countrywide to remain vigilant and help control the spread of dengue fever.
Every family should throw out water collected in jars, vases, and dishes and should cover such vessels to prevent more water from filling them up.
People countrywide should clear potential mosquito breeding sites around their homes and workplaces to help control the spread of dengue fever.
According to the World Health Organization, dengue fever is one of the fastest emerging infections with Thailand, Laos, the Philippines and Singapore also seeing high incidences. The number of cases in the Western Pacific region has more than doubled over the past 10 years.