Iloilo experiences rise in dengue cases amid dry spell

Mosquito (INQUIRER.net file photo)

ILOILO CITY – Iloilo province has recorded an increase in dengue cases amid the El Niño phenomenon this year.

Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon, chief of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO), said 141 dengue cases were recorded from January 1 to February 3.

This number represents a slight increase from the 138 cases over the same period last year.

She called for an intensified implementation of the 4S strategy on dengue prevention with a focus on searching and destroying mosquito-breeding sites.

This strategy involves pro-active measures such as early consultation, self-protection, fogging or spraying operations when necessary.

The dry spell has prompted residents to store water.

This situation created breeding grounds for mosquitoes, if containers were not covered.

Quiñon said neglecting preventive measures may contribute to further increase in dengue cases.

Only four towns of the 43 local governments in Iloilo have not reported dengue cases. These municipalities are Anilao, Batad, Concepcion and Zarraga.

The town of Oton has the highest number of cases with 18, followed by Passi city with 11.

About 40 percent of the dengue cases affected individuals between 1 and 10 years old.