ILOILO City – Residents experiencing even mild fever can now avail themselves of free dengue testing at all nine district health centers in Iloilo City as health authorities intensify efforts to detect infections early and prevent potentially serious complications.
Assistant City Health Officer Dr. Roland Jay Fortuna urged residents not to wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking medical attention, warning that dengue infections may initially manifest as low-grade fever before progressing to vomiting and abdominal pain.
Fortuna said testing can be conducted as early as the first day of fever, with repeat examinations provided free of charge if symptoms persist.
“Even if the test result is negative on the first day, if the fever continues, we can repeat the test. It is still free. Residents only need to visit their nearest District Health Center,” Fortuna said.
He emphasized that mild fever should never be dismissed, as prompt consultation allows health workers to monitor patients and determine whether further treatment is necessary.
“We should not delay consultation just because the fever is mild. Early detection means we can monitor the patient earlier and determine if further medical attention is needed,” Fortuna said.
The nine district health centers are also equipped with hydration corners where patients can receive oral rehydration when necessary.
“If a patient needs hydration, we have hydration corners in our health centers. We provide oral rehydration to help address the patient’s fluid needs,” he said.
Meanwhile, the City Health Office (CHO) renewed its appeal for residents to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds through regular household and community cleanup.
Fortuna warned that stagnant water accumulating in plant vases, bamboo fences and discarded containers can serve as breeding sites for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
“For plant vases, the water should be changed regularly. Some bamboo fences have openings on top where rainwater can collect. These can also become places where mosquitoes lay their eggs,” he said.
He stressed that combating dengue requires sustained public cooperation, particularly in eliminating mosquito breeding sites and ensuring early medical consultation.
“The responsibility does not rest on the City Health Office alone. Everyone must help keep their surroundings clean. By removing possible breeding sites and seeking consultation as soon as fever develops, we can help prevent dengue cases from increasing,” Fortuna added./PN
