BACOLOD City – A notable 75.32 percent increase in dengue cases in Negros Occidental was observed from January to August this year, data from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) showed.
Dr. Girlie Pinongan, head of the PHO, yesterday said that the province listed 1,520 dengue cases from January 1 to August 3, much higher than the 867 cases recorded in the same period last year.
Six deaths among children aged 1 to 10 years old have been tentatively linked to dengue, added Pinongan.
The PHO said Sipalay City and Hinoba-an reported the highest number of cases, while spike in cases was also observed in Cadiz City.
The PHO chief, however, said that despite the current figures, the situation is not yet alarming compared to the cases in the past years in the province.
Meanwhile, with the increasing cases, health facilities, including Rural Health Units, across the province were directed to establish dedicated “fast lanes” to expedite the treatment and care of dengue patients, ensuring prompt medical attention during possible outbreak.
Pinongan reiterated the critical role of public awareness and participation in dengue prevention efforts. She emphasized the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding sites and adopting personal protective measures like using insect repellents, wearing long sleeves, and pants to minimize exposure to mosquito bites.
Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, causing severe flu-like symptoms and, in extreme cases, death. Symptoms include a sudden high fever, severe headache, nausea or persistent vomiting, swollen glands, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, and red spots or patches on the skin. (Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
