WV records 165 new dengue cases in a week

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ILOILO City – Western Visayas has reported 165 new cases of dengue fever from March 3 to March 9, bringing the total number of cases in the region to 1,467, including three fatalities, since the start of the year.

This figure shows a slight decrease of one percent compared to the 1,481 cases reported during the same period last year.

Dengue fever is a viral i nfection transmitted by mosquitoes, and characterized by severe flu-like symptoms that can lead to death in extreme cases. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, nausea or vomiting, swollen glands, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, and red spots or patches on the skin.

The provinces and highly urbanized cities (HUCs) with the highest number of new cases are Iloilo province with 74 new cases; Aklan with 28; and Capiz and Iloilo City each with 20.

The breakdown of the 1,467 cases, including the three deaths, across the provinces and HUCs so far this year is as follows:

* Aklan – 252

* Antique – 149

* Capiz – 203

* Guimaras – 64

* Iloilo Province – 427 * Negros Occidental – 204 * Bacolod City – 28

* Iloilo City – 140

The three reported fatalities were a six-year-old boy from Miag-ao; a 10-yearold girl from Lambunao; and a six -year-old boy from Iloilo City

Additionally, 14 barangays in the region have been identified as having a clustering of cases (with two or more cases reported over four consecutive weeks).

The Department of Health ( DOH) previously warned the public about a possible increase in dengue cases due to the El Niño phenomenon, as water storage practices increase the risk of mosquito breeding.

To combat the rise in dengue cases, DOH introduced a 5S strategy, an expansion of the original 4S approach. The 4S strategy includes searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, selfprotection measures such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent, seeking early treatment, and supporting fogging or spraying in hotspot areas.

The added fifth S, “sustain hydration,” advises the public to continue drinking oral rehydration solutions as recommended by a physician./