News outlets report on the threat of the El Nino weather pattern, which may increase vector-borne diseases and impact food security in Asia.

Bernama: El Nino May Increase Risk Of Dengue, Malaria — Health Minister
“The El Nino phenomenon, expected to hit the country from June to December this year, may increase the risk of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, said Health Minister [of Malaysia] Datuk Seri Dr. S. Subramaniam…” (5/23).

Reuters: Asia readies food security defenses against El Nino threat
“Asia’s governments are scrambling to head off the potential impact of a weather phenomenon that in the past has driven food prices to levels that sparked social unrest. … They are aiming to reduce the impact of the so-called El Nino, a weather pattern that can bring drought to Australia, Southeast Asia, and India…” (Supriatna et al., 5/27).