The Integrated Crisis Management Centre’s (CIGC) spokesperson, Dr Odete da Silva, said five of the fatalities were children.

Cases of the mosquito-borne virus have increased from February, following monsoon rains that create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitos. According to Dr Silva, the majority of dengue patients are young children.

Dengue fever is common in tropical climates, and proliferates in the wet season, when Aedes aegypti mosquitos breed in unclean environments.

Removing rubbish, covering standing water and maintaining clean homes is critical to preventing mosquitos breeding, officials say.

Dr Silva said although health authorities are focussed on the COVID-19 pandemic, they are also concerned about spread of dengue, calling on people to remain vigilant seek medical treatment if they feel ill. Common symptoms include fever, rash, and muscle and joint pain.

Dr Silva therefore appealed to the public to maintain a clean home and healthy yard.

As of Tuesday, Timor-Leste’s registered COVID-19 cases remained at 24.