Guangdong health authorities reported 1,431 new dengue cases in the province on Sunday.

This brings the total of 21,527 dengue cases in the province alone. Health authorities said on Monday the number is quickly increasing. They also said more than 1,000 dengue cases were recorded last week.

Like Us on Facebook

According to health officials, one person has already died due to the virus. This brings the death toll in Guangdong to six, said the provincial health and family commission.

The latest dengue report was recorded in Liwan, western Guangzhou. Guangdong province has already recorded 5 deaths from dengue this year. A report from Shanghai Daily said Guangzhou is the worst hit city in Guangdong with 18,192 confirmed dengue cases.

The commission also said there was one fatality in Foshan with a recorded 1,997 cases. It also added that dengue cases were determined in 20 out of 21 cities in Guangdong province.

Dengue is a deadly disease brought by mosquito bites. Every year, 50 to 100 million people are affected in different tropical and subtropical regions. Dengue symptoms include muscle pains, joint aches and fever.

Guangzhou mayor Chen Jianhua said during a seminar held on Sunday to increase efforts in combating mosquitoes. Chen also urged health officials and residents alike to detect the disease at the early stages and administer early medical intervention. Furthermore he said those who are suspecting to have the disease should undergo early quarantine to prevent further spreading of dengue.

Xinhua reported seeing vehicle owners spraying pesticides on Guangzhou streets on Monday. People are also conducting disinfecting measures on channels, green belts, garages and sewers to kill mosquitoes. Local communities also offer free mosquito repellants to residents.

As the National Day holiday is ending, the local government in Guangzhou is set to clean up the city on Tuesday. The clean-up drive would commence in construction sites and schools which has been left empty during the week-long holiday.

Tagsdengue, South China, Guangzhou, Liwan district, Provincial health and family commission, Chen Jianhua