DOH: DON’T JUST REMEMBER, PRACTICE 4S TO PREVENT DENGUE

The Department of Health (DOH) together with Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Local Government of Quezon City launch today their strengthened Anti-Dengue Advocacy Campaign in schools and communities. The highlight of this activity is the ceremonial turn-over of Insecticide Treated Screens (ITS) to DepEd. This year, DOH will distribute 10,000 ITS rolls to selected public elementary schools nationwide as part of their intensified action in preventing and controlling dengue.

ITS  is a screen, installed at the window or door areas of the classroom. It is proven and tested to have safe level of insecticide (permethrin) which will be used to protect students inside the classroom against dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

“This intervention is not new to DOH. It started in 2009 with 7,620 schools reached nationwide. This year, we are intensifying the installation and sustainability of ITS in public elementary schools with the help of DepEd, DILG, Local Government Units (LGUs) and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). Our developmental partners are the key factors for the success of this initiative.” Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin explained.

While Insecticide Treated Screens are beneficial to schools, DOH pushes their community advocacies such as the promotion of the AksyonBarangayKontraDengue in communities and following the 4S against dengue. The 4S means Search & destroy mosquito breeding places, use Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation for fevers lasting more than 2 days, and Say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak.

“The first step to prevent dengue is within our homes. We should not only remember the information being delivered by DOH to the communities. Instead, let us make it a practice and instill cleanliness in our surroundings. It is not only your family who will benefit with this habit, but the safety of our entire community as well.” Garin said.

Meanwhile, as of September 19 this year, a total of 92,807 dengue cases were reported nationwide. This figure is 23.5% higher compared to the same period last year (75,117). A total of 269 deaths (0.3%) were reported this year which is lower than last year with 316 deaths (0.4%). While there are increasing cases of dengue, it only shows that with proper clinical management and early consultation, death due to dengue can be avoided.

Ages of the cases ranged from less than 1 month to 99 years old. Majority of the cases were male. Most of the cases were from the 5 to 14 years age group.

Most of the cases were reported from Central Luzon or Region III (14,127 out of 92,807 or 15.2%), CaLaBaRZon or Region IV-A (14,082 out of 92,807 or 15.2%), and National Capital Region (10,385 out of 92,807 or 11.2%)

“Dengue prevention should start from each and everyone. Make 4S a habit and participate in the Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue activities in our community. Together, let us fight and eliminate dengue-carrying mosquitoes and protect our families, friends, and loved ones against dengue.” Garin concluded. # SOURCE – www.doh.gov.ph