ANTIQUE – Antique Provincial Health Office (APHO) urges the public to adhere to the 4S protocol after it recorded 79 dengue cases as of Feb. 8 this year.
The cases of the mosquito-borne disease in 2024 are 23 percent higher compared to the same period in the previous year, with 64 cases.
APHO’s 4S protocol consists of searching and destroying mosquito breeding grounds, seeking early medical consultation, ensuring personal protection, and supporting anti-dengue fogging or spraying operations whenever necessary.
The municipality of Caluya has the highest number of cases among all 18 towns in the province.
The number of cases per municipality is as follows: Caluya (29), Culasi (12), Sibalom (nine), Sebaste (seven), San Jose (five), Bugasong (three), Laua-an (three), Pandan (two), Patnongon (two), Barbaza (two), Valderrama (two), Tibiao (two), and Anini-y (one).
The age range of those affected spans from seven months to 82 years old.
Aside from the 4S protocol, the Department of Health (DOH) advocates for the “4 o’clock habit,” urging communities to dedicate time at 4 p.m. daily to eliminate dengue breeding sites. Cleaning before evening, according to the DOH, is crucial for reducing the risk of dengue, as mosquitoes carrying the disease are most active at dusk.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that can sometimes be fatal.
Dengue is characterized by a sudden onset of a high fever (104 degrees Fahrenheit) and at least two of the following symptoms:
* severe headache
* nausea or persistent vomiting
* swollen glands
* muscle, bone, and joint pain
* pain behind the eyes
* red spots or patches on the skin. (With a report from PIO-LUCES, Province of Antique)/PN
