With no specific treatment available for dengue, the Department of Health (DOH) warned the public on Thursday, June 13, about a circulating Facebook post claiming that bird’s eye chili, locally called “siling labuyo,” is a cure for the disease.
The post claimed that siling labuyo possesses healing properties against dengue, particularly asserting its capacity to boost blood platelet levels in affected individuals.
However, the DOH dismissed this claim, pointing out that the best way to fight the disease is by preventing mosquito bites.
It recommended wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants to minimize skin exposure and using mosquito-repellent lotions and sprays.
Filipinos were also encouraged to seek early medical consultation if they experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, or rashes, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Moreover, the department stressed the importance of eliminating mosquito-breeding sites and supporting fogging activities in outbreak-prone areas to curb the spread of dengue.
DOH also urged the public to verify information from credible sources and platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation.