KALIBO, Aklan – The number of dengue cases in Aklan continues to rise, based on the latest data from the Provincial Health Office (PHO).
From January to May 25 this year, 982 cases of the mosquito-borne disease have been recorded in the province, 47 percent higher compared to 665 in the same period last year, according to PHO.
The PHO said the increase is “alarming,” adding that there have already been nine recorded deaths so far this year. There were seven in the same period last year.
But Provincial Health Officer I Dr. Cornelio Cuachon Jr. said Aklan has no identified “dengue hotspots,” or areas where dengue cases have been recorded increasing for four consecutive weeks.
This capital town has the highest incidence of dengue with 284. Banga followed with 95 and Numancia with 92.
Cuachon said they will reactivate the Provincial Anti-Dengue Task Force to minimize the number of cases in Aklan, especially that the rainy season is about to come.
The PHO is encouraging the public to follow the 4S strategy against dengue – searching and destroying mosquito breeding places; self-protection measures such as wearing of long-sleeve shirts and pants; seeking early consultation when dengue symptoms are observed; and supporting fogging/spraying only in hotspot areas to prevent an impending outbreak.
Dengue is characterized by a high fever (40°C/104°F) which is accompanied by two of these symptoms: severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, or rash.
The symptoms usually last for two to seven days after an incubation period of four to 10 days after the bite from an infected mosquito. (With a report from Akean Forum, WHO/PN)
