Two girls die of dengue fever

SURIN: -- Two girls have died of dengue fever and another 638 people are sick as the mosquito-borne disease spreads rapidly in Surin province, the local public health office said Tuesday.

The districts of Sanom, Sangkha, Lamduan Jom Phra and the subdistrict of Sri Narong have reported the highest number of dengue cases ever recorded in the province, said health office chief, Dr Khimhan Yongrattanakij.

The two girls, aged nine and 15, died after succumbing to high fever caused by the disease.

An effort was underway in the province to eradicate mosquito larvae in water sources. This would minimise the chance of the disease spreading further, said Dr Khimhan.

-- The Nation 2006-07-26

Dengue seems to have a firm grip on the region this year. What are the exact numbers of sick and dead due to the disease? Where can I get the figures?

Is it only in Surin or other regions are affected as well?

My thoughts go out to the families of the young girls.