ILOILO City – Grappling with rising dengue cases, the City Health Office (CHO) has intensified its prevention measures, focusing particularly on border barangays and areas with higher infection rates.
Since January, the city has reported 106 dengue cases, a slight decrease from the 119 cases recorded during the same period last year. However, health officials remain vigilant, especially after a 45-year-old man from City Proper became the city’s first dengue-related fatality on February 10.
Dr. Mary Ann Diaz, CHO officer-in-charge, stressed the importance of continued monitoring and prevention efforts.
“Though we have seen a slight decrease in cases compared to last year, we are still closely watching the situation. It’s essential to stay alert, as dengue remains a threat,” Diaz said.
The CHO has pinpointed specific areas requiring heightened surveillance, particularly border barangays such as Buntatala in Jaro district, Hibao-an in Mandurriao district, and Mohon in Arevalo district. These areas, while not experiencing high case numbers, serve as entry points from neighboring towns where dengue cases are on the rise.
Additionally, barangays with dense populations and a significant number of dengue cases, such as South Fundidor (Molo district), Calaparan (Arevalo), and Jereos (La Paz district), are under strict observation.
Diaz emphasized the importance of regular sanitation practices to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.
“We urge barangay officials to promote daily cleanliness, not just during scheduled clean-up drives. Dengue thrives in stagnant water, so maintaining clean surroundings is critical,” she said.
Diaz also advised residents to seek medical attention at the earliest sign of symptoms like fever, body aches, and eye pain to prevent complications./PN
