THE Department of Health in Northern Mindanao has reported a significant increase in dengue cases this year, with a 60.5% rise compared to the total number of cases in 2023.
Dr. Wellaflor Brito, head of the infectious diseases cluster at DOH-10, revealed during Cagayan de Oro Press Club’s ‘Meet the Press’ today that as of September 18, the region has recorded 17,544 dengue cases so far, a substantial increase from the 10,931 cases reported last year.
“Nagtaas gyud atong dengue cases karon,” Brito told reporters.
While the region has seen 88 deaths due to dengue, Brito pointed out the importance of community participation in mitigating the spread of the disease.
She urged the public to actively engage in searching and destroying breeding grounds for mosquitoes, particularly during the rainy season.
Brito also advised residents to take preventive measures such as wearing long sleeves and pajamas, and seeking early medical consultation if symptoms like fever and fatigue arise.
She said that, in addition to other measures, the DOH has distributed insecticide-treated screens to schools. However, this alone does not guarantee complete protection from dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
“Pero kung hunahunaon nato pag gawas sa mga bata (from school) pwede pa man sila mapaakan,” said Brito.
She highlighted the importance of staying hydrated during dengue fever, as the disease can lead to a significant drop in platelet count, potentially resulting in internal bleeding.
“Ang dengue makaubos sya up to lower 100 nga plate (platelet count) ang normal nga platelet is 150-300,” she said.
To bolster dengue prevention efforts, the DOH has trained Barangay health workers on how to identify and manage cases of the disease.
