WITH the continuing rise of dengue cases in Northern Mindanao, the Department of Health (DOH) adds one more strategy in the anti-dengue campaign.
Aside from the usual 4S strategy, DOH introduced yesterday the 5th S strategy -- sustain hydration. This is the new addition to 4S: search and destroy mosquito-breeding sites, self-protection, seek early consultation, and the support for fogging and spraying.
From January 1 to August 17, a total of 17,701 dengue cases were recorded from all health facilities across the region. This figure is 66.61 percent higher compared to the same period last year.
Bukidnon remains the region with the highest number of cases at 7,120 cases. The most common age group affected is 1-10 years old, mostly male.
Deaths due to dengue is now at 70.
Meanwhile, Dr. Dave Mendoza, DOH-Northern Mindanao assistant director, said rural health units are directed to establish hydration stations for dengue patients.
“Hydration helps, we need to practice hydration in rural health units para dili na mosaka pa sa hospital, sa health unit pa lang maagapan na,” Mendoza said.
Increased oral fluid intake is recommended to prevent dehydration of the patients.
Mendoza meanwhile belied claims that there is a new dengue strain. He said there are still 4 dengue strains.
“The only problem is daghan ang population sa lamok, so mas taas ang viral load pud. We are also observing na medyo short term na ang ilang incubation,” he said.
Mendoza said residents should be careful in storing water, as the dengue-carrying mosquitoes stay in clean and stagnant water. They also thrive in shady and areas with cool temperature.
These mosquitoes travel up to 300 meters from their breeding ground.