By Oliver Ross Rivera
KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato, Mar. 18 (PIA) - Local health officials urged the public to be cautious over the increase in number of dengue cases in Soccsksargen region.
Dept. of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) XII Medical Officer IV Dr. Imelda Quiñones said their Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) already reported 5 deaths and 3,211 affected individuals.
Of the 3,211 cases in the region as of March 9, 1,156 have been recorded in Cotabato Province, 928 in South cotabato, 412 in Sultan Kudarat, 297 in Sarangani, 264 in General Santos City and 154 in Cotabato city.
DOH XII noted an increase of 201% as compared to the cases listed in same period last year. They also reiterated the importance of 4S strategy to fight and prevent dengue.
“We now have the enhanced 4S strategy. It is enhanced because we are adding three more diseases particularly malaria, chikungunya and zika which are vector borne diseases from mosquitoes,” Dr. Quiñones said.
The 4S strategy consists of: Search and destroy breeding places, Secure self-protection, Seek early consultation, and Saying No to indiscriminate fogging.
Meanwhile, health officials also noted that though the region is experiencing drought, the number of dengue cases are still increasing.
The DOH also advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms of dengue. (ORVRivera-PIA12)