BY JEN BAYLON
CAPIZ – Four individuals in the province lost their lives to dengue fever this year.
According to the Provincial Health Office (PHO), two fatalities were reported in the municipality of Panay, one in Mambusao, and another in the city of Roxas.
These deaths account for 0.50 percent of the 801 reported cases of dengue fever from Jan. 1 to Nov. 25. However, compared to the same period last year, the total number of cases is 12.46 percent lower.
Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. It can cause severe flu-like symptoms and could sometimes lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
The most affected age group is between 10 and 19 years old, indicating the vulnerability of adolescents and teenagers to the mosquito-borne illness.
The youngest dengue case in Capiz was a two-month-old infant, while the oldest was a 93-year-old.
Clustering of cases was recorded in nine barangays: Dumolog, Banica, Tanque, Tiza, Barra, and Lawaan in Roxas City; Jaena Norte in Jamindan; and Jolongajog and Malag-it in Pontevedra. Health officials consider a clustering of cases when there are three or more consecutive weeks with at least three cases reported in a specific area.
The PHO has continued reminding the public to follow the 4S strategy to prevent the spread of the disease. The 4S strategy includes: (1) search and destroy mosquito breeding sites; (2) seek early consultation for symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, and joint and muscle pains; (3) self-protective measures such as using mosquito repellents and wearing protective clothing; and (4) say yes to fogging in areas where an increase in cases is reported.
On its part, the Capiz provincial government emphasizes the importance of community involvement in preventing the spread of dengue. They urge residents to be vigilant about eliminating potential breeding sites and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience the symptoms associated with dengue./PN
