FOGGING OPERATIONS. A worker carries out fogging operations as part of an anti-dengue campaign at the Mandaluyong City Hall compound in Mandaluyong City on Sept. 27, 2022. The Department of Health on Monday (May 20, 2024) reported a “slight” 3 percent decrease in dengue cases nationwide amid frequent isolated thunderstorms and rainshowers. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a 3 percent decrease in dengue cases nationwide amid frequent isolated thunderstorms and rainshowers.
From April 7 to 20, the dengue cases dropped to 5,211 from 5,380, which was recorded from March 24 to April 6.
A total of 59,267 dengue cases with 164 deaths have been recorded from January 1 to May 4 of this year.
Dengue is caused by a virus that mosquitoes spread to people. Its symptoms include high fever (40°C ), severe headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, rashes, pain behind the eyes, vomiting, and swollen glands.
It is treated for its symptoms, often with pain medicine, as there is no specific treatment at present. The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites, especially during the day.
"Kill mosquitoes so that the dengue they bring will not kill you. This early, before the full swing of the rainy season, families and communities should search and destroy mosquito breeding sites -- anywhere or anything where water can accumulate and stay still," Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.
The DOH also advises the use of self-protection measures like long sleeves and pants that cover the skin, or mosquito-repellent lotions and sprays.
Those who have symptoms like fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, and rashes must seek immediate consultation.
Patients must sustain proper hydration to prevent severe symptoms which could be fatal.
Local government units are advised to conduct fogging.
"We brought cases down because of intense public awareness and close community action. Let us keep it that way,” Herbosa said. (PNA)
