DOH reminds public on dengue, chikungunya

THE extended rainy season, health authorities in the region reminded the public to take precautions against the killer disease dengue and another mosquito-borne disease chikungunya.

Byrant Labastida, Department of Health-Eastern Visayas information officer, said dengue and chikungunya cases are likely to come during rainy season, so people must take necessary precautions.

“About 60 persons have been afflicted with dengue in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, one of which reportedly died of the disease. Meanwhile, fresh cases of suspected chikungunya have also been reported in Villareal, Samar,” Labastida said.

Late in December last year, about 263 residents of Villareal have been afflicted with chikungunya.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said dengue and chikungunya are transmitted by the bite of Aedes mosquito infected with various types of viruses.

Dengue virus infections are common in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. Symptoms appear 3—14 days after the infective bite. Dengue fever is a febrile illness that affects infants, young children and adults.

Labastida said surroundings should be kept free from stagnant water, where dengue-carrying mosquitoes breed.

Meanwhile, the DOH in the region will also be on the lookout for other diseases such as flu and A(H1N1).

He also said the Department of Health already started administering vaccination on health workers who are deemed most at risk for A(H1N1). (Leyte Samar Daily Express)