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Dengue Alert: Over 500 Cases Per Day in Cambodia in July 2026

Cambodia's Ministry of Health reports a surge in dengue with hundreds of daily cases. Expats in Siem Reap urged to step up mosquito protection.

daily-life

Updated 2026-07-09 5 min

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In short

  • Over 500 dengue cases detected daily in Cambodia in July 2026, according to the Ministry of Health.
  • Most affected provinces include Phnom Penh, Kandal, and Siem Reap.
  • Expats should strengthen mosquito protection and consult if fever occurs.
  • Ministry calls for vigilance and destruction of breeding sites.
500+
Daily Cases
July 2026
Period
Phnom Penh, Kandal, Siem Reap
Location(s)
Khmer Times Breaking News
Source

Key Facts at a Glance

  • Over 500 cases per day. Cambodia's Ministry of Health reported a sharp increase in dengue cases, with hundreds of new cases daily in July 2026.
  • National alert. The announcement was made on July 9, 2026 via an official statement relayed by Khmer Times Breaking News.
  • Most affected provinces. Phnom Penh, Kandal, and Siem Reap are among the hardest-hit areas.
  • Monsoon season. The rainy season favors the proliferation of dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
  • Call for vigilance. The Ministry recommends destroying breeding sites and using repellents.

How It Unfolded

The resurgence of dengue in Cambodia follows a typical seasonal pattern, but the scale of the increase in July 2026 prompted the Ministry to issue a public alert.

  1. June 2026: Health services record a gradual increase in dengue cases in several provinces.
  2. Early July 2026: Daily case count exceeds 500, triggering enhanced vigilance.
  3. July 9, 2026: Ministry of Health publishes an official statement alerting the public and calling for prevention.
  4. Week of July 10: Awareness and mosquito control campaigns intensified in the most affected areas.
  5. Coming weeks: Enhanced epidemiological monitoring; expats urged to report any suspected cases.

Breakdown

Preliminary data from the Ministry of Health indicate an uneven distribution of dengue cases, with a concentration in urban and peri-urban areas.

ProvinceEstimated Cases (July 2026)Details
Phnom PenhHighHigh population density, numerous breeding sites
KandalHighPeri-urban area, presence of stagnant water reservoirs
Siem ReapModerate to HighTourist influx, active mosquitoes around temples and hotels
BattambangModerateLocalized outbreaks reported
Other provincesLow to ModerateSporadic cases, vigilance maintained

What This Means for Siem Reap

  • Increased risk of mosquito bites, especially in the evening and near wet areas (temples, rice paddies).
  • Need to strengthen protective measures: mosquito nets, repellents, long clothing.
  • If sudden fever, severe headache, or joint pain occurs, consult a clinic promptly.
  • Tourist establishments (hotels, restaurants) urged to eliminate standing water.
  • Expats should monitor children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable to severe forms.

How to Stay Safe

  1. Use mosquito repellent. Apply a product containing DEET, icaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil, especially in the late afternoon.
  2. Sleep under a mosquito net. Even if your home is air-conditioned, a net remains the most reliable protection.
  3. Eliminate standing water. Empty saucers under flower pots, buckets, and any container that could serve as a breeding site.
  4. Wear long clothing. Opt for long sleeves and light trousers, especially at dusk.
  5. Monitor symptoms. High fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, rash. Consult as soon as these signs appear.
  6. Avoid high-risk areas. Limit travel to heavily vegetated or poorly drained areas in the late afternoon.
  7. Stay informed. Follow announcements from the Ministry of Health and recommendations from local clinics.

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of dengue?
Symptoms include high fever (40°C), severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and a rash. Severe forms can lead to bleeding and low blood pressure.
How long does dengue last?
The acute phase typically lasts 2 to 7 days. Recovery can take several weeks, with persistent fatigue.
Is there a dengue vaccine available in Cambodia?
The Dengvaxia vaccine is available in some countries, but it is not routinely recommended for travelers. Consult a doctor for a personalized assessment.
What should I do if I think I have dengue?
Consult a doctor immediately. Rest, drink plenty of water, and take paracetamol for fever (avoid aspirin and ibuprofen as they increase bleeding risk).
Do dengue mosquitoes bite at all hours?
The Aedes aegypti mosquito, which carries dengue, primarily bites during the day, with peaks in the early morning and late afternoon.

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Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia