DOH seeks local gov’t coordination for anti-dengue

Metro Manila, Philippines - Local government units should coordinate with local health officials for evidence-based campaigns against dengue, the Department of Health (DOH) said.

Some local efforts have figured in social media chatter, such as submitting dead or alive mosquitoes and larvae in exchange for money, but the agency advised holding consultations with experts for effective intervention.

“Sana makipag-coordinate ang ating local chief executives sa Department of Health regional offices at sa kanilang mismong local health officers na mga doktor na nasa loob ng LGU para mapag-usapan ang evidence-based interventions na alam nating tumatalab,” Health spokesperson Albert Domingo said.

[Translation: We hope local chief executives coordinate with local health officers to talk about effective evidence-based interventions.]

Domingo said effective interventions include searching and destroying breeding sites, using self-protection, seeking early consultation, and supporting fogging and misting.

“Nakita na natin wala pang Hulyo meron ng nangyaring dengue, this is now a year-round affair, hindi lang rainy season,” the health official said. “Patuloy dapat ang consultation at coordination with our local health office.”

[Translation: We saw the rise of dengue cases even though it’s still not July. This is now a year-round affair, not only during the rainy season. Our consultation and coordination with the local health office should continue.]

The DOH has observed a “concerning rise” in dengue cases in nine areas in Luzon, with the agency reporting more than 28,000 infections nationwide as of Feb. 1. 

Quezon City has already declared an outbreak. On Wednesday, the Philippine Red Cross noted rising cases in Negros Occidental and Iloilo in Visayas, and Parañaque City in Metro Manila.