DOH strengthens anti-dengue campaign

Following the erratic increase of dengue cases in Caraga region, the health department is strongly advised to exert extraneous efforts in performing the 4S against dengue.

The Department of Health (DOH) Caraga urged the community to do the 4S against dengue or the Search and Destroy, Self-Protection Measures, Seek Early Consultation, and Say “No” to Indiscriminate Fogging.

"In doing the 4S, you have to search and destroy mosquito breeding sites especially those with the stagnant waters; you are also to protect yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and application of mosquito repellents; if an individual is having a high fever of more than three days, he must be consulted to the nearest health facility for proper assessment by a doctor; and allow only indiscriminate fogging if an outbreak is present or when it is needed," said in a statement.

As per DOH Caraga record, a total of 3,907 dengue cases for the period January 1, 2016 to August 6 have already admitted to different disease reporting units in the region.

The record shows 69.6 percent higher compared to the same time period last year with only 2,304 recorded cases.

The increase in dengue cases in the region has caused formidable concern to the regional office of the agency, said DOH Caraga regional director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr.

Llacuna said the province of Surigao del Sur has the highest case of dengue in the region with 1,010 cases; followed by Agusan del Sur with 635; Surigao del Norte – 592; Butuan City – 568; Surigao City – 413; Agusan del Norte – 276; Tandag City – 168; Bislig City – 84; Bayugan City – 60; Dinagat Islands – 53; and Cabadbaran City with 48 cases