KALIBO, Aklan (PIA) — The Provincial Health Office here urged the public to practice “5S strategy” to prevent and control the increasing number of dengue cases in the province of Aklan.
During the Philippine Information Agency-Aklan’s radio program Kapihan sa RMN-Kalibo, J’Lorenz Dionisio, Nurse III of PHO-Aklan, said that cases of dengue in the province increase and it may continue to rise with the onset of rainy season.
“From January 1 to June 8, 2024, the province of Aklan has 569 reported cases of dengue; which shows a 19 percent increase as compared to the same period last year in which Aklan registered 479 cases,” Dionisio reported.
He noted the town of Kalibo has the highest number of dengue cases with 88; followed by Ibajay with 70; Malay with 69; and Nabas and Batan with 65 and 39 cases, respectively.
“Actually, this month of June, we observe the National Dengue Awareness Month because, although dengue is a whole year-round illness, it is in this month that the cases of dengue are expected to increase due to the onset of rainy season,” Dionisio explained.
For this year, the theme is “Stop the Spread, Sama-sama nating Sugpuin ang Dengue!” which emphasizes the importance of collective action to combat dengue.
With the recent epidemiological data showing a significant increase in the number of dengue cases in the province and the expected surge this June which is the onset of rainy season, Dionisio said that PHO here strengthens the “5S Strategy” against dengue.
The 5S stands for Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites; Self-protection measures; Seek early consultation; Support fogging; and Sustain hydration.
Dionisio said the first S, which is search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, is very basic yet the most effective way to reduce the number of dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
“If you are storing water in your house which you will be used later on like in watering plants, make sure that the container is covered. However, if the collection of water is placed in caps, tires, or flower vases, make sure to throw the water regularly to prevent the Aedes mosquito from breeding,” he added.
Dionisio said that if there are cases of dengue in your area, it is a must that you should do self-protection measures such as applying mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves / pajamas and non-dark clothes.
He added that if symptoms such as high fever of more than two days, rashes, and bleeding of gums and nose are noticed, you should seek early consultation at the nearest health facility to determine if it is dengue and to provide immediate and proper treatment. It is advised not to self-medicate.
The fourth S which is, Say yes to fogging or misting is done to areas noted with clustering of cases or hotspots. This is to prevent the production of more Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the main vector transmitting the virus.
The last S is Sustained Hydration. This suggests to drink aerosol or oral dehydration solution, or water. This aerosol is prescribed by doctors to keep hydrated the person contracted with dengue.
Meanwhile, Dionisio commended the surveillance reporting units in every municipality in Aklan for being very active. They make sure that diseases occurring in their respective areas are being reported for the awareness of the public.
“In response also to the dengue situation here in the province; PHO has regular communication and meetings with the disease reporting unit or the focal person in every municipality, health center or hospital. We also release to them reports on dengue for them to be aware of the clustering of cases and hotspots so that they could take necessary actions,” said Dionisio, adding that PHO has also regular health programming for the general public to be informed. (AGP/SQP/PIA Aklan)
