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| Tacloban City Health Office advises residents to maintain preventive measures against dengue fever and flu-like illnesses as cases rise in Eastern Visayas. (Photo for illustrative purposes only) |
TACLOBAN CITY – The Tacloban City Health Office urges residents to continue observing preventive measures following a surge in dengue fever and influenza-like illnesses in the Eastern Visayas region. Dr. Danilo Ecarma, City Health Officer-in-Charge, advises strengthening the immune system and ensuring cleanliness, especially during the northeast monsoon season when parts of the region are prone to illnesses.
According to the Department of Health Eastern Visayas, dengue cases have risen to 614 in January this year, compared to 406 cases in the same month last year. Similarly, flu-like illnesses such as fever, cough, and sore throat have reached 968 from January 1-27, surpassing last year's figure by 541 cases in the same four-week period.
Dr. Ecarma noted that the dengue situation in the city is not yet alarming, with only four cases reported since January. Monitoring and fogging in barangays or schools that request it is ongoing as part of their dengue control measures.
Dengue, transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, is characterized by high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pains, and other symptoms.
The public is reminded to adhere to the "4S" strategy: Search and Destroy mosquito breeding sites; Self-protection measures such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants; Seek early consultation for dengue symptoms like fever; and Support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas with high cases. —iTacloban