New dengue cluster in Joo Chiat?

New dengue cluster in Joo Chiat?

SINGAPORE - Picture this - there are about 20 houses along Everitt Road North and 16 dengue fever cases.

Just a street away at Lorong 104 Changi, there are 11 cases.

At the adjacent Langsat Road, there are six cases.

And if you look wider, to include Lorong 100-105 Changi and Sims Avenue, there are 97 cases of dengue so far in the area.

Dengue is everywhere in the Joo Chiat neighbourhood, and the residents know it.

Retiree Robert Fan, 50, who lives in a terrace house at Everitt Road North, had a bout of dengue fever five years ago and is not taking any chances.

He said: "The authorities come by frequently and we check the garden almost every day.

"To be safe, I even check (for signs of mosquito breeding) indoors, like the air-con pipes for example.

We have to be careful because my six-monthold grandson is living with us."

The neighbourhood, mainly made up of landed housing, contains the largest cluster of cases after Tampines.

Worried

Residents The New Paper approached on Sunday said they were worried.

Many banners with warning signs are displayed in the neighbourhood.

"There are more than 80 cases of dengue in your neighbourhood," reminded one.

The residents also said they are looking out for potential mosquito breeding spots more frequently.

Mr Fan is worried. "Just close the windows and turn on the aircon," he said firmly.

Businessman Larry Phua, who lives at Langsat Road with his wife and children, shares the sentiment.

"I told my wife not to go outside and to try to stay indoors more.

"Luckily the four of us are okay so far," the 63-year-old said.

Businessman S.T. Yee, who has been living at Langsat Road for about 20 years, said: "My neighbours and I look out for each other.

"I also check places around the house that I don't usually check.

"But other than taking precautions and extra care, life goes on."


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