CAPIZ – The provincial government has intensified its campaign against dengue following the sharp increase in cases this year compared to the previous year, which also prompted Gov. Fredenil Castro to place Capiz under a state of calamity.
Gov. Castro yesterday led the grand fumigation and launching of “Gugma Lamok Buster” initiative in the 1st District composed of President Roxas, Pilar, Maayon, Pontevedra, and Panay towns.
Fumigation, according to the governor, eliminates mosquitoes and prevents further increase of cases.
Also, during the Gugma Lamok Buster, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) conducted advocacy campaign to raise public awareness against dengue. Residents were also urged anew to always practice the 4S strategy: searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites; self-protection measures such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent; seeking early treatment; and supporting fogging or spraying in hotspot areas.
Also joining the activity were Vice Gov. James “Mitang” Magbanua; Provincial Board member Thea Faith Reyes; 1st District’s Deputy Administrator Enrique Martin; personnel of the Department of Health, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, General Services Office, and Provincial Information Office; and officials of concerned municipalities.
Dengue fever, transmitted by the bite of an Aedes mosquito infected with a dengue virus, causes flu-like symptoms including severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, and rash.
More severe forms can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
Data from the PHO showed that from January 1 to August 31 this year, the province recorded 2,370 dengue cases with five deaths – 346.33 percent higher than the 531 cases registered in the same period last year.
Here is the breakdown of the cases per municipality: Cuartero (100), Dao (108), Dumalag (107), Dumarao (195), Ivisan (73), Jamindan (57), Maayon (86), Mambusao (174), Panay (75), Panit-an (140), Pilar (73), Pontevedra (123), President Roxas (86), Roxas City (640), Sapi-an (63), Sigma (164), and Tapaz (106)./PN
