SSM confirms new chikungunya cases, calls for vigilance

Following the confirmation of two new locally transmitted cases of chikungunya fever in Macau on Saturday, the Health Bureau (SSM) held a press conference on “proactive” prevention and control measures yesterday,

The bureau stressed at yesterday’s press conference that although the overall risk has increased, it has not yet reached a severe level, so there is no need for unnecessary panic.

“We emphasize the importance of residents staying vigilant, cooperating with our mosquito prevention measures, and supporting regional or citywide eradication efforts when necessary,” stated Alvis Lo, the director of SSM. He noted that while the overall risk in Macau has increased, it has not yet reached a severe level, and residents need not panic excessively.

“Risk control depends on the measures taken by both the government and our residents,” he added, urging members of the public to take proactive steps, such as cleaning their homes and regularly removing stagnant water to significantly reduce risk.

Lo cited alarming statistics, revealing that approximately 16 out of every 100 households have containers that breed mosquitoes and larvae, including flowerpot saucers, air conditioner condensate, and stagnant water on household altars.

“Clearing stagnant water is the key preventive measure. Even with public mosquito control efforts, the fundamental solution remains eliminating standing water, as Aedes albopictus mosquitoes prefer still, clean water – a condition most commonly found in households,” he explained.

According to the bureau, Macau has recorded a total of 32 cases of chikungunya fever since the first imported case was identified in late July, consisting of 24 imported cases and eight locally transmitted cases.

As of Saturday, six patients remain hospitalized – four with chikungunya and two with dengue fever. All 50 cumulative cases have been mild, with no severe complications reported. Notably, 53% of these cases involve individuals aged over 50.

Among the eight local patients, four individuals have jobs that require them to work outdoors.

Lo emphasized that mosquito control measures across the city will be dynamically adjusted based on ongoing risk assessments. In the event that imported cases or isolated non-cluster cases emerge, targeted mosquito control will be deployed at identified risk points. This strategy includes conducting cleanup operations within a 100-meter radius – typically the flight range of Aedes albopictus – surrounding locations where cases reside, work, or engage in activities. Furthermore, regional mosquito control efforts will only commence when linked cases are confirmed within a specific area, ensuring a focused and effective response to the evolving situation.

“We will proceed gradually based on risk assessments,” Lo stated, highlighting that the evaluation of risk is contingent upon the distribution of cases, which complicates the ability to provide specific numbers or levels at this time. He further pointed out that enhanced measures will be implemented as necessary, ensuring a responsive approach to the evolving situation.

Recent information indicates that there are currently 40 identified risk locations for chikungunya in Macau over the past 14 days, with elevated risks particularly in the areas of Praia do Mandarim, Saúde Do Porto Interior, the Ruins of St. Paul’s, and the Border Gate.

Lo emphasized that while basic mosquito prevention measures may seem straightforward, they are often the most challenging to implement. He noted that many individuals tend to overlook these essential steps, stating, “Eliminating stagnant water is the most crucial preventive measure at any stage and at any time.”