TABUK CITY, Kalinga — The Provincial Health Office (PHO) calls on the public to take action against dengue, reiterating the 4S strategy to prevent the mosquito-borne illness amid rising cases in the province.
Kalinga has recorded a total of 495 cases from January to August 8, 2026, representing a 51% increase in cases compared to last year 326 cases, according to Sanitary Inspector Nelson De Jesus.
The 4S strategy involves four actions: Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, Secure self-protection, Support fogging operations, and Seek early consultation.
Residents are advised to make a habit of eliminating standing water and breeding sites for dengue-carrying mosquitoes, warning that even objects as small as a bottle cap can hold enough water for mosquito larvae (kiti-kiti) to live.
“Number one nga maaramid tayo kuma daytuy ti balbalay tayo, ararubayan tayo. Idi last week nag Operation Pattug kami dituy Hilltop ket nakita nga uray tansan nga ada danum na ket ada kitikiti na, uray dagiyay sapatos ken sandal nga nag-accumulate ti danum ket ada kiti-kiti na,” said Nelson De Jesus, IV of the PHO.
He also urged residents to cooperate with fogging or spraying activities conducted by authorities in hotspot areas and practice self-protection, including the wearing of protective clothes, especially students. The dengue-carrying mosquito called Aedes aegypti is most active during the day.
“Agsuot tayo kuma ti long sleeves and pants lalo dagiyay ubbing, i-require kuma ti schools nga long pants ti usaren da. Adu ti lamok ti siruk ti lamisaan kada tugtugaw ket daytuy Aedes aegypti ket day biting gamin daytuy, aktibo da ti aldaw,” said De Jesus.
De Jesus stressed that seeking early consultation when symptoms occur is critical, as severe dengue can lead to life-threatening complications.
Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and rashes.
De Jesus reiterates the health office’s call for heightened public vigilance and community action to control its spread. **JDP/IOS-PIA CAR, Kalinga
