MANILA — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and other officials of the Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday led the “search and destroy” activity inside its headquarters as part of its anti-dengue campaign.

During the activity, Duque inspected the different areas inside the DOH compound which could be possible breeding places of mosquitoes.

He reiterated that the search and destruction of these breeding areas is part of the department’s 4S strategy against dengue which includes self-protection measures, seek early consultation, and support fogging or spraying.

To strengthen the fight against the disease, Duque said another “s” measure could be added to their 4-S strategy.

“I may suggest to the executive committee later that from 4S we make it 5S or sustained hydration. This is very important,” he added.

Duque reported that there is a total of 167,607 cases of dengue with 720 deaths from January 1 to July 27, 2019.

“The Philippines has lower cases of dengue compared to other ASEAN countries, but the case fatality ratio is high,” he said.

The latest DOH data showed that the National Capital Region has gone down to “below alert threshold” level on the number of dengue cases and deaths in each local government unit.

However, Muntinlupa City has gone beyond the threshold level with 315 cases from January 1 to August 3, 2019, while Taguig City also already breached the threshold level with 490 cases for the same period.

Duque also urged the public to keep their surroundings clean because it is the best way to prevent dengue cases and deaths.

On August 6, the DOH launched the Sabayang 4-o’clock Habit to raise awareness and encourage the community to do its share and take time to get rid of dengue breeding sites after it has declared a national epidemic. (PNA)

By Ma. Teresa Montemayor / PNA

BICOLANOS ASKED TO SUSTAIN FIGHT VS. DENGUE

LEGAZPI CITY — The Department of Health’s (DOH) Center for Health Development in Bicol is advising residents to be consistent in implementing the “4S” strategy against dengue in order to curb the rise in cases of the mosquito-borne disease.

Dr. Ernie Vera, DOH-Bicol regional director, said in an interview on Tuesday that the “Sabayang Search and Destroy” of mosquito breeding sites must be sustained. “We appeal to check on your surroundings and destroy all possible mosquito breeding sites inside and outside of your homes, schools or workplaces. Do it daily, every 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon,” he said.

Based on records, a total of 8,639 dengue cases with 65 deaths have been reported in Bicol from January to September 28, 2019.

Camarines Sur still has the highest number with 3,614 cases and 29 deaths; Sorsogon, 1,783 cases and 10 deaths; Albay, 1,298 with 17 deaths; Catanduanes, 924 with 1 death; Masbate, 543 with 4 deaths; and Camarines Norte, 459 cases with 4 deaths. The remaining 18 cases were diagnosed in Bicol but came from other regions.

Vera also encouraged Bicolanos to be vigilant in recognizing the signs and symptoms of dengue.

“If fever has been persistent for two days, and (the patient) is experiencing headaches, severe joint and muscle pain, fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite, and skin rashes, immediately seek early consultation from the doctors in health centers of the government or private hospitals,” he added. (PNA)

By Connie Calipay