ILOILO City – In response to a significant uptick in dengue cases, the Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas is gearing up to activate “dengue fast lanes” in hospitals and Rural Health Units (RHUs) across the region.
This move aims to streamline the treatment process and manage the sudden increase in patient volume more effectively.
From June 16 to June 22, the region reported a record 360 new dengue cases, including one fatality, marking the highest weekly surge in cases this year.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms typically begin three to 14 days after infection and may include a high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash.
In severe cases, dengue can develop into more serious conditions, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever, leading to bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and even death.
The distribution of new cases in the region is as follows:
* Aklan – 53
* Antique – 29 cases, with one death
* Capiz – 31
* Guimaras – 47
* Iloilo Province – 115
* Negros Occidental – 58
* Bacolod City – 7
* Iloilo City – 20
Overall, from the start of the year to June 22, Western Visayas has seen a total of 4,030 dengue cases and 10 deaths, which represents a 25 percent increase from the 3,213 cases reported during the same period in 2023.
Dr. Adriano P. Suba-an, DOH Region 6 director, emphasized the urgency of the fast lane activation, noting that it is crucial to avoiding long waiting times and potential fatalities, especially in government hospitals where services are free and demand is high.
He stressed the critical need for rapid hydration and intravenous fluids for patients as soon as they arrive at medical facilities.
In anticipation of further increases in dengue cases, Suba-an has called on local government units (LGUs) to identify and prepare hydration areas either within or close to RHUs. This strategy is intended to alleviate pressure on hospitals if they become overwhelmed by the volume of patients.
Addressing the situation at the community level, Suba-an mentioned that when multiple dengue cases are reported from a single barangay or area, DOH-6 personnel are promptly dispatched to investigate and mitigate the situation. This proactive approach is crucial for controlling the spread of the disease.
With the onset of the rainy season, Suba-an reiterated the importance of the public adhering to the 4S strategy against dengue: Search and destroy breeding places, Self-protection measures (such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent), Seek early treatment for symptoms, and Say yes to fogging during outbreaks.
These steps are vital for reducing mosquito populations and preventing the disease from spreading further, he said./PN
