IN THE ONGOING battle against dengue in Iloilo, where cases have surged to alarming levels, the “4 o’clock habit” as a community-led prevention encourages residents to eliminate mosquito breeding sites at a specific time each day. This strategy is rooted in community participation and education.
However, the escalating figures — 7,814 cases with 20 fatalities this year, a staggering 562 percent increase from the previous year — signal a need to evaluate and enhance the provincial government’s public health messaging.
Effective communication is the linchpin of public health strategies, particularly in combating diseases like dengue that require community involvement for prevention. While the “4 o’clock habit” has been adopted across 1,721 barangays in Iloilo, the persistent rise in cases suggests that current educational outreach may not be penetrating deeply enough or is missing critical segments of the population.
It would be wise for the provincial government to recognize the diverse demographic landscape of Iloilo. Its strategies should be tailored to reach various age groups, from the young to the elderly, who are affected differently by the disease. Data indicate that the youth, particularly those aged 1 to 20 years, are the most affected, comprising nearly two-thirds of the cases. This points to targeted educational campaigns that resonate with the younger population, perhaps through school programs, social media campaigns, and youth-centric community events.
Also, the method of delivery is just as important as the message itself. In areas with limited internet access or lower literacy rates, traditional methods like community gatherings, loudspeaker announcements, and door-to-door education might be more effective. Meanwhile, urban areas could benefit from digital campaigns, leveraging platforms like Facebook and Twitter, where news spreads fast and can be tailored to reach specific audiences with interactive content.
Collaboration with local influencers, such as barangay captains, teachers, and even local celebrities, could amplify the reach and impact of health messages. These local figures often command respect and attention, making them ideal partners in disseminating health advisories more credibly and persuasively.
The Provincial Health Office must continuously assess the effectiveness of its communication strategies to ensure that the public’s feedback directly informs future campaigns. Understanding public perception and behavior regarding dengue prevention will illuminate gaps in current strategies and guide the development of more impactful messages.
In public health, effective communication can be just as vital as any vaccine or treatment.
