CEBU CITY – More than 7,000 dengue cases have been recorded in the first half of the year in Central Visayas.
Dr. Eugenia Mercedes Cañal, regional epidemiologist of the Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-7), said 7,132 dengue cases and 19 deaths were reported in Region 7 from January to June 15.
“Good thing with the dengue cases, the fatality rate did not reach one percent. The fatality rate is just .3 for the region and it has something to do with better management and referral. If there are dengue cases in our periphery, it is being referred immediately to a capable hospital,” Cañal said.
With the onset of the rainy season, Cañal advised the public to step up the drive against dengue.
Cañal emphasized the importance of the "4 o'clock habit" to prevent dengue that include search and destroy, self-protection, support fogging and spraying, and seek early consultation
She said that dengue also thrives during the dry season.
“Protection against dengue is a whole year thing. Always clean your house, outside and inside. Be wary of water being stored in containers because dengue-carrying mosquitoes breed there,” said Cañal.
Wearing long sleeves and applying mosquito repellant are also a good protection against dengue. Seeking early medical consultation is also important for those who are manifesting dengue symptoms.
Symptoms of dengue include high fever, joint and muscle pains, severe headache, body rashes, mild bleeding from the nose or gums, and bruising easily.