Antique PHO issues dengue alert anew
SAN JOSE, Antique – The Antique Provincial Health Office (PHO) issued dengue alert anew with the onset of rainy season to keep the public informed of the possible spread of the disease.
Mildred Quilino, PHO Information Officer reported a total of 31 cases for the period January to May 19, 2008 with one death. The town of San Remgio top the list with 8 cases, followed by Tibiao and Hamtic with 5 and 4 respectively. Other towns have less than 3 cases. Most of the dengue suspected patients aged 16-19 years old.
PHO urged the people to continue the daily clean up to keep away dengue mosquitoes. Search and destroy operation of breeding places are encouraged especially now that the weather condition (rain showers alternate with sunny days) is conducive for the mosquitoes to thrive, said Quilino.
In 2007, PHO reported a total of 470 cases of dengue with 3 deaths in the province.
The Department of Health considered Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever as one of the major health problems during rainy season. It occurs in all age groups. This disease (transmitted by Aedes, a day-biting mosquito) is preventable but is prevalent in urban centers where population density is high, water supply is inadequate (resulting to water storage and a good breeding place for the vector), and solid waste collection and storing are also inadequate (DOH news).
Major strategy is advocacy and promotion, particularly the Four O’clock Habit which was adopted by most LGUs. This is a nationwide, continuous and concerted effort to eliminate the breeding places of Aedes aegypti. Other initiatives are the dissemination of IEC materials and tri-media coverage.
Among the signs and symptoms of Dengue Fever are High continuous fever lasting for 2-7 days, Nausea/vomiting, Abdominal pain, Body weakness, Bleeding tendencies from nose and gums, and Persistent red spots on the face, extremities and trunks.Patients are advised to see the nearest health center/hospital for medication if signs and symptoms occur, concluded Quilino. (PS Mabaquiao/PIA)