BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — With the occasional afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms being experienced in the Cordillera region these days, the Department of Health reminds the public anew on clearing possible mosquito breeding sites in households and backyards.
From January 1 to April 26, there were 1,973 Dengue cases recorded in the region, a 41 percent increase compared to the 1,404 cases recorded during the same period last year. There were also five dengue-related deaths recorded to date.
Per geographical area, Benguet recorded the most cases with 625 cases, followed by Baguio City with 335, Mountain Province – 186, Ifugao – 155, Kalinga – 135 and Abra 133., DOH-CAR records show.
Nurse Benelyne Balag-ey , in a kapihan forum here, reminded the public of the 4S Strategy against Dengue, namely: Search and Destroy (mosquito breeding sites), Secure self-protection, Seek early consultation, and Support spraying in hotspot areas to prevent impending outbreak.
She also encouraged them to practice the 4Ts against Dengue, which are Taob (invert), Taktak (Shake), Tuyo (Dry up) and Takip (cover) for water containers or any materials, even plants, that may accumulate water and can serve as dengue mosquito breeding sites.
The DOH-CAR also reminds the public to be wary of other notifiable diseases in the region such as measles rubella, leptospirosis, hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD), and Influenza- like Illnesses (ILI).
For the reporting period, the DOH-CAR recorded 79 cases of measles rubella, 56 cases of leptospirosis, 601 cases of HFMD and 5,161 cases of ILI.
Balag-ey, calls for a whole-of-society approach in ensuring a healthier Cordillera.
“How can we work together? Let us make sure that our children are safe from vaccine- preventable diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective, ” Balag-ey said.
She also stressed the importance of disposing waste properly and keeping surroundings clean.
Ensure safe drinking water and proper food handling and storage; continue the adherence to the minimum public health standards, and maintain a healthy lifestyle, she added. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR)
