DAGUPAN CITY – The Pangasinan Provincial Health Office (PHO) has reminded Pangasinenses anew to be vigilant against dengue as cases in the province almost doubled from January to July 26 this year.
The latest data provided by the PHO Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit on Saturday showed 2,634 dengue cases were recorded during this period, a 97-percent surge from the 1,334 cases recorded in the same period last year.
The mortality rate this year, however stands ay two (2) only compared to last year’s 11 death. The two who succumbed to death were from Rosales and Malasiqui towns. A high number of cases was recorded in June and July 1 to 26.
The towns and cities under the PHO said the towns and cities under its watch include San Carlos City with 302 cases; Alaminos City, 290, Pozorrubio, 147; Bolinao, 109, Urdaneta City, 108; Bayambang, 103; Lingayen, 90, Asingan and Binmaley, with 72 cases each. The youngest case is a two-month-old male and the oldest is a 55-year-old female.
Department of Health-Ilocos spokesperson Dr. Rheuel Bobis, in a recent interview, reminded the public to practice the 4S strategy against dengue — Search and destroy mosquito-breeding sites, Self-protection measures, Seeking early consultation, and Supporting fogging or spraying in times of impending outbreaks.
Bobis said there has been a “notable spike in the number of dengue cases this year which may due to neglect on cleanliness of the surroundings as dengue mosquitoes breed in stagnant waters.”