In Iloilo province: Dengue cases shoot up to 317 percent

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — A whopping 317 percent increase on dengue cases in Iloilo province was reported from January to March 9.

The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) records showed 384 cases with two deaths were reported compared to 92 cases with three deaths over the same period last year.

Assistant Provincial Health Officer Maria Socorro Colmenares Quiñon said Banate town topped the list with 57 cases with one death.

It was followed by Sta. Barbara town with 26 cases, Janiuay with 25, New Lucena (24 with 1 death), Oton (21), Pototan (20), Pavia (19), Calinog (16) and Alimodian, Badiangan, San Miguel and Tigbauan (13 each).

Quiñon considered the increase alarming but said they were not surprised. An entomological survey conducted by the IPHO among four barangays in four towns showed that more than 30 percent of the household have identified breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Still, Quiñon recommended for the 4S (Search and Destroy, Self-protection Measures, Seek Early Consultation, and Say No to Indiscriminate Fogging) strategy, which she said is cheap, effective and the best defense against dengue.

She also pointed out the need for community participation, of which municipal and barangay officials should lead the awareness and prevention efforts against mosquito-borne disease.

”Our officials must see to it that the program on “Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue” (or ABaKaDa) is being carried out,” Quiñon said, adding that the IPHO will purchase larvicide for distribution to affected communities. (FREEMAN)