Dengue cases rising, 11 dead; four die from meningococcemia
DENGUE cases continue to increase in Pangasinan based on the Provincial Health Office’s (PHO) surveillance monitoring.
Dr. Ana de Guzman, provincial health officer, in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, said 8,182 cases of dengue have been reported from January this year to November 4, and 11 have been confirmed to have died.
This year’s data reflected 8% dengue cases more this year compared to 7,554 cases last year with 25 deaths.
Included in the watchlist in the province are San Carlos City that recorded 680 cases, Bayambang, 511 cases; Malasiqui, 457 cases; Lingayen, 425 cases; and Calasiao, 250 cases.
The intermittent rains, presence of isolated water-borne receptacles and lack of environmental cleanup are seen to be common causes of the dengue cases.
PHO advises the practice of clearing of areas that collect water after the rains in order to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, and once fever is felt, consultation with a doctor must be done right away so to preempt fatal stage.
Meanwhile, PHO also recorded four cases of meningococcemia that resulted in the deaths of the patients.
The victims were two boys and two girls, aged one year being the youngest and 24 years old, the oldest.
Meningococcemia, according to De Guzman,v is associated with upper track respiratory infection and is fatal if left untreated.
PHO also advised the public to practice regular hand washing, cover the mouth when sneezing or coughing to prevent it from spreading to others, eating healthy foods and boosting immunity, and avoid sharing utensils to prevent to such a disease. (Nora Dominguez)
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
