Palawan posts increase in malaria cases

Several areas in Palawan posted a substantial increase in the number of malaria cases, the Department of Health (DOH) reported yesterday.

Eduardo Janairo, DOH-Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan) director, said the cases went up in at least five barangays in the municipality of Brooke’s Point.

Data from the Mimaropa regional epidemiological unit showed the figure rose by 17 percent from Jan. 1 to Oct. 31.

Janairo said a total of 1,275 cases were recorded, which is higher than the 1,092 during the same period last year.

Among the five barangays with the highest number of cases are Imulnod with 386; Mainit, 153; Aribungos, 139; Amas, 132, and Salogon, 99.

In the entire Palawan, the DOH recorded a total of 5,068 confirmed malaria cases from Jan. 1 to Oct. 30.

Aside from Brooke’s Point, a substantial number of malaria cases were also recorded inthe municipalities of Balabac, Bataraza, Quezon and Rizal.

Health officials conducted anti-malaria activities in several tribal communities in Barangay Imulnod in Brooke’s Point.

“Malaria must be diagnosed and treated promptly to prevent further spread of infection,” Janairo said.

He said the regional office continues its massive malaria prevention and control measures.

The official urged everyone, especially those in endemic malaria areas to undergo blood test to confirm their condition and be provided care and treatment when needed.

“Malaria is everyone responsibility and the cooperation of every member of the community is vital in the elimination efforts,” he said.

Mosquito nets laced with insecticide were distributed to at least 1,000 families to help prevent the spread of the disease.