As the rainy season begins, the Department of Health (DOH) MIMAROPA is urging the public to prepare for the rise of dengue cases, particularly during the months of July, August, and September, and observe the ‘5S strategy'.
Dr. Mario Baquilod, Regional Director of the Center for Health and Development MIMAROPA, emphasized the importance of information dissemination and preventive actions in combating dengue during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum on July 2.
5S strategy includes that includes Search and Destroy, Self-protection measures, Seeking early consultation, Support fogging or spraying during outbreaks, and Sustained hydration.
Among these, Dr. Baquilod highlighted the effectiveness of the ‘Search and Destroy' method, which involves locating and eliminating mosquito breeding areas such as stagnant water in bottles, as it incurs no cost.
According to the latest DOH MIMAROPA report, there have been 3,603 dengue cases in the region from January to June 26, a 38% decrease from the 5,811 cases reported during the same period last year.
Palawan recorded the highest number of cases at 1,571, followed by Oriental Mindoro with 1,417 cases. Meanwhile, Occidental Mindoro reported 309 cases, Romblon had 211 cases, and Marinduque had 95 cases. The dengue virus has claimed 28 lives so far this year.
“Our health education efforts continue in all areas,” Baquilod added.
He noted that the highest dengue cases have been observed in Palawan, particularly in Puerto Princesa, and in Oriental Mindoro, particularly in Calapan City.
In preparation, Baquilod said that their department has prepositioned equipment in different areas in the region to fight against the dengue virus.
“As early as now, we have prepositioned equipment for spraying in communities and distributed mosquito nets to schools and hospitals,” Dr. Baquilod told the media.
