CEBU CITY – Dengue cases in Central Visayas from January to mid-August have breached the 15,000-mark.
The Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH 7) reported that as of August 17, 15,394 dengue cases with 35 deaths have been recorded in the region.
The DOH-7 said there was a significant spike as there were only 7,132 dengue cases from January to June this year.
Bohol province recorded the highest number of dengue cases with 5,165. The anti-dengue task force in Bohol has recommended the declaration of a state of calamity to Gov. Aris Aumentado due to the dengue outbreak.
Cebu has the second highest number of dengue with 4,592, followed by Negros Oriental with 2,689. The province of Siquijor has 637 cases.
In Metro Cebu, Cebu City has the highest number of dengue cases with 1,360 and three deaths. Mandaue City has 437 cases and one death and Lapu-Lapu City has 504 cases.
Dr. Eugenia Mercedes Cañal, regional epidemiologist for DOH 7, noted the importance of preventive measures such as enhanced immunity, cleanliness, and adherence to the 4S strategy.
The 4S strategy is searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, securing self-protection, seeking early medical consultation, and supporting fogging in areas with high case counts.
Dr. Ronald Jarvik Buscato of DOH-7 said fogging will help eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Using insect repellents will also help prevent dengue, said Buscato.