Lingayen, Pangasinan—The Provincial Health Office (PHO) continues to intensify its monitoring and Information Education Campaign (IEC) against dengue to ensure public safety.
From January 1 to July 8, 2024, the PHO recorded 716 dengue cases. This is 4% lower compared to the 742 dengue cases recorded in the same period in 2023.
For 2024, Lingayen had the most recorded dengue cases at 155, followed by Bugallon with 50 and Mangatarem with 48, respectively.
Other municipalities and cities under the PHO watchlist include Binmaley (47); Urbiztondo (42); Labrador (39); San Carlos City (39); Calasiao (29); Bayambang (25); and Malasiqui (23).
PHO further recorded a total of five (5) dengue deaths this year in the towns of Sual (1), Mangatarem (2), Binmaley (1), and San Carlos City (1), while a single death was recorded in 2023 in the City of Alaminos.
Following the presence of dengue cases in the province, PHO headed by Dr. Anna de Guzman strictly imposed and called on the public to observe 4S Dengue preventive measures and strategies to combat dengue: search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and their containers; use self-protection measures such as insect repellent and the wearing of long-sleeved shirts and long pants; seek early consultation with a doctor or health worker for any symptoms; and support fogging or spraying in local hotspots or outbreak areas.
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans by the bite of Aedes aegypti species of mosquitoes.
While many dengue infections are asymptomatic or produce only mild illness, the virus can occasionally cause more severe cases and could also be fatal.
Symptoms seen in individuals afflicted with dengue are fever, muscle and joint pains, dizziness and vomiting, headaches, and skin rashes, among others. (Chona C. Bugayong/PIMRO)
