Pangasinan malaria- free for 1.5 years
PANGASINAN has remained free of malaria cases in the last 18 months, but the Provincial Health Office (PHO) continues to closely monitor areas that are under risks of incidence.
Dr. Anna Ma. Teresa de Guzman, provincial health officer, said eight towns in the province, namely: Infanta, Mabini, Agno, Dasol, Sual, Mangatarem, Bani and Aguilar, are being monitored on possible malaria incidence.
The World Health Organization and the Department of Health declare an area is certified malaria-free when there is zero incidence for five consecutive years.
De Guzman said the PHO aims to maintain Pangasinan’s status as malaria-free by continuously distributing insecticide-treated mosquito nets in different areas, some of which are used as curtains in school classrooms, especially in previously-affected areas.
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease whose symptoms include fever and headache. It could lead to coma or death.
De Guzman said those suffering from such symptoms must be immediately brought to the hospital so that thorough laboratory tests can be conducted to confirm malaria infection.
Treatment of the disease takes 14 to 20 days.—Eva Visperas
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
