Health department told to step up anti-dengue drive

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City council is urging the City Health Department to step up the anti-dengue campaign in public schools in the city before classes open next month.

Councilor Arsenio Pacaña said mist-spraying should be done in schools as a preventive measure to address dengue cases, common during the rainy season.

The councilor said it is appropriate that the city health department intensify its anti-dengue drive with emphasis on sustainable, community-based, mosquito control in combination with the use of chemicals to enhance the effectiveness of dengue prevention program.

“To promote the health and safety of its inhabitants there is an urgent need to intensify efforts and adopt preventive measures before the opening of classes to reduce incidents of dengue cases, particularly among school children,” Pacaña said.

He said that with the weather bureau’s forecast of more rains by the middle of June just in time for the opening of classes, Pacaña said there is a possibility that dengue cases may rise again in the city.

Mayor Tomas R. Osmeña has already approved the release of P3.8 million for the purchase of chemicals and some other equipment to strengthen the city’s anti-dengue campaign.

The P3,823,750 will be used to buy mist blowers, protective gears and anti-dengue larvicidal solution, spraying and impregnation supplies and some other needs.

But while the number of dengue cases had gone up from January, the number of casualties in the city remain at six, as compared to 12 deaths in the first four months last year. (FREEMAN NEWS)