MANILA – The Department of Health in the Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) on Monday reminded residents to destroy possible mosquito breeding sites as the wet season approaches.
In a public advisory, the agency reported a total of 2,171 cases of dengue from Jan. 1 to May 10, a 28-percent increase from the 1,698 cases recorded during the same period last year.
Five dengue-related deaths were also recorded during the five-month period.
To combat dengue, people are advised to observe the 4S strategy: Search and Destroy (mosquito breeding sites); Secure self-protection; Seek early consultation; and Support spraying in hotspot areas to prevent an outbreak.
They are also urged to practice the 4Ts against dengue: Taob (invert), Taktak (Shake), Tuyo (Dry up) and Takip (cover) water containers or any materials, including plants, that may accumulate water and serve as dengue mosquito breeding sites.
During the same period, there was a 59-percent increase in measles-rubella cases in the region, or from 56 cases last year to 89 this year.
Cases of rotavirus, a food and water-borne illness, increased by 3033 percent at 94 this year compared to only three last year.
For zoonotic diseases (animals to human and vice versa), there were 68 leptospirosis cases, which is 89 percent higher compared to the 36 cases logged during the same period last year.
Meanwhile, rabies cases increased to four from last year’s one.
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases likewise rose from 236 last year to 635 this year.
To prevent water and food-borne disease, the DOH-CAR reminded the public to make sure drinking water is safe; fruits and vegetables are washed properly; meat is cooked thoroughly; and proper and regular handwashing, and environmental hygiene are practiced.
Other safety measures to prevent acquiring or spreading diseases are are wearing of mask, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, proper disposal of used tissue papers, frequent handwashing with soap, staying at home when sick, and avoiding close contact with sick people, the DOH said.
To avoid leptospirosis, the DOH reminded the public to wear protective boots and gloves to avoid contact with dirty water, not swim or wade in floodwater, observe proper hygiene, eliminate rodents, correct waste disposal, and seek treatment when symptoms arise. **Liza Agoot
