Experts warn of dengue spike amid El Nino as cases surpass 2025 total
PETALING JAYA: National dengue numbers have overtaken last year’s full total. Health experts warn that El Nino weather patterns and the dominant DENV-3 strain will trigger further severe infections. According to the Health Ministry’s iDengue portal, cases reached 55,855 as of Tuesday, slightly exceeding 2025 recorded cases that stood at 55,399. They said warmer temperatures during El Nino can a
Source: The Star Malaysia · August 13, 2026 at 12:03 AM · AI-assisted report
KUALA LUMPUR, 13 AUGUST 2026 —
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**Dengue Cases Surge Past 2025 Total as El Nino Fuels Outbreak Risk**
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PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s dengue cases have surpassed last year’s full-year total, with health experts warning that El Nino weather patterns and the dominant DENV-3 strain could worsen the outbreak. As of Tuesday, the Health Ministry’s iDengue portal recorded 55,855 cases, slightly exceeding the 55,399 cases reported in 2025. The surge coincides with El Nino conditions, which accelerate mosquito development and viral replication, increasing transmission risks.
Dengue has been endemic in Malaysia for decades, but the current situation is exacerbated by the co-circulation of all four dengue virus serotypes—DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4—making the country hyperendemic. Public healthcare specialist Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia noted that El Nino’s warmer temperatures create ideal breeding conditions for *Aedes aegypti* mosquitoes, the primary vector for dengue.
Urban and densely populated areas are particularly vulnerable, though rural regions are also affected.
The emergence of DENV-3 as the dominant serotype is a major concern, as prior infections with DENV-1 or DENV-2 do not confer immunity against it. Prof Sharifa Ezat highlighted that DENV-3 is associated with higher case fatality rates, including severe complications such as dengue haemorrhagic fever.
She urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites—such as stagnant water in containers at homes, workplaces, and schools—and seek medical attention if symptoms like fever, rashes, or bleeding occur. Severe cases may require intravenous fluids, platelet transfusions, or ICU admission, with young children, pregnant women, and the elderly at higher risk.
Virologist Dr Sazaly Abu Bakar of Universiti Malaya warned that prior exposure to DENV-2 could paradoxically increase the severity of DENV-3 infections, a phenomenon known as antibody-dependent enhancement. This raises concerns about higher mortality rates if cases are not detected and treated early. Dr Sazaly called for healthcare facilities to bolster staff training, stockpile critical supplies, and ensure adequate bed capacity.
While cases are expected to rise, he does not anticipate a repeat of the over 120,000 annual cases recorded in 2023 and 2024, though such levels could occur in 2027 or 2028.
Public health expert Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar advised the public to conduct weekly checks for mosquito breeding sites, cover water containers, use repellents, and wear protective clothing during daylight hours. The Health Ministry has not yet announced additional measures, but local governments are intensifying fogging and larvicide campaigns in hotspot areas.
The tetravalent dengue vaccine *Qdenga*, which targets all four serotypes, is available at select private clinics, though uptake remains low due to cost and awareness barriers.
The outbreak underscores the need for sustained vector control and public vigilance, particularly as El Nino conditions persist. Health authorities are monitoring trends closely, with updates expected in the coming weeks.