The National Environment Agency launched its annual national dengue prevention campaign Saturday as Singapore enters the traditional peak season from May to October.
Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Janil Puthucheary urged vigilance, warning against complacency despite lower case numbers.
Warmer temperatures from May to October speed mosquito breeding and allow the virus to replicate faster, making outbreaks escalate more quickly.
As of May 15, over 600 cases have been reported this year, 66% less than the same period last year. NEA says strong community vigilance and Project Wolbachia suppressed the mid-year surge since 2023. The program will cover 70% of households by year-end.
But risk factors remain: Singapore's role as an international transport hub, low population immunity, and circulation of all four dengue virus serotypes. Climate change and shifting weather patterns are expected to worsen the situation.
In 2025, NEA conducted 565,730 inspections and found 20,469 breeding habitats. In cluster areas, 65% of breeding sites were in homes. Over 9,800 enforcement actions were taken.
Dr Puthucheary stressed that technology complements, not replaces, basic prevention: "We have to remove stagnant water. This remains the most direct and effective way to prevent mosquitoes from breeding."