BAGUIO CITY, June 5-- The Department of Health (DOH) reiterates its warning to the public to take precautionary measures against dengue and other rainy day diseases during a kapihan forum last week.

According to DOH-CAR Local Health Support Services Division head Dr. Amelita Pangilinan, with the onset of rainy season, the DOH cautions the public against dengue and other rainy day diseases such as typhoid fever, measles, influenza like illnesses and food and water borne diseases.

“The public should watch out and be vigilant.For instance, after typhoon Chedeng, there was rain for about a week and this increased the breeding of dengue mosquitoes. The public should practice the 4S campaign (Search and Destroy, Seek early consultation, Self-protective measures, and Say no to indiscriminate fogging) and ensure that there would be no breeding grounds for dengue mosquitoes starting in their homes, surroundings, and the whole community,” Pangilinan said.

As a precautionary measure, Pangilinan advises the public to boost their immune system by eating a balanced diet including lots of fruits and vegetables, take vitamin C and have at least seven to eight hours sleep. In addition, people should manage their stress, keep themselves warm, observe cough ethics, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

This June, the DOH leads the observance of Dengue Awareness Month, with the theme, “Eskwelahan, Simbahan, Barangay, Palengke at Buong Komunidad, Sama-Sama Nating Sugpuin ang Dengue,” which aims to heighten awareness of the strategy to fight dengue by adopting the 4S Kontra Dengue.

In line with this, Health Secretary Enrique Ona directed all the Centers for Health Development (CHDs) in the country to coordinate with their respective local government unit (LGU counterparts) to encourage them to conduct a simultaneous dengue awareness activity with the Health Department.

Based on DOH data, from January to May 7, they recorded a total of 22,903 dengue cases nationwide. Pangilinan affirms that they have recorded 420 cases, which is slightly lower than the 472 cases recorded last year. (JDP/LD-PIA CAR)