Health Dept. warns public of increase in dengue cases

Cases of dengue and other vector-borne diseases are expected to increase in the next weeks if the public still continues to refuse observance of environmental sanitation in their communities, the Department of Health warned.

DOH-Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit epidemiologist Reynan Cimafranca said that they are expecting an increase of dengue cases in the coming weeks, citing the trend of cases last year in their records.

Cimafranca said that based on the records last year, dengue posted all-time high in the month of August where cases continue to rise brought about by the rainy days.

According to their data, there are already 1,458 cases of dengue that were admitted at different RESU-7 hospitals from January 1 to August 5 this year with 33 fatalities. However, this is 26.5 percent lower compared to the same period last year, which posted over 1,600 cases.

Ages of cases ranged from 3 months old to 72 years old wherein 51 percent were male. Most of the cases belonged to the 6-10 years age group.

Cimafranca said that part of the recommendations the DOH earlier gave to local government units is to intensify the information campaign on dengue emphasizing the importance of eliminating the breeding places of mosquitoes prior to the dengue season.

Local government units should also mobilize the community to actively participate in environmental sanitation activities such as cleanup drives.

DOH has also advised the public to clean all possible mosquito breeding places like flower vases, tires and roof gutters where water can pool or stored.

Cimafranca said that tires are not the only breeding sites of mosquitoes. Even dikes and water pools where clear water is stored can also serve as breeding sites.

DOH has also advised the public to use personal protective measures such as mosquito nets or screen houses and cover water receptacles.

The rainy season usually starts in June wherein dengue fever cases begin to increase. This pattern is expected in the country based on previous data. Stagnant water during rainy season serves as habitat for mosquitoes where they can lay their eggs and proliferate.

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe illness transmitted by mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti). It is fatal when treated late. The disease is most frequent in children less than 11 years of age. These are the members of the population frequently exposed because of their mobility and lack of knowledge regarding dengue fever transmission. - Jasmin R. Uy