Number of dengue cases in city drops in 2011

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Health Department recorded an 18 percent decrease in the number of dengue cases from January to August 2 this year compared to the number of cases during the same period in 2010.

There were 930 cases and seven deaths recorded from January to August 2 last year and only 757 cases and eight deaths were reported within the same period this year.

CHD Dengue Prevention and Control Coordinator Dr. Raymond Ogan said the decrease can be attributed to their intense campaign against dengue in the different barangays, especially in areas that are considered hotspots or part of the Top 10 Dengue prone areas.

Since the city declared a dengue epidemic in 2007 when it recorded more than 2,100 cases of dengue and 51 deaths, the fatality rate has decreased continuously over the years except in 2009 when the city again experienced an epidemic.

In 2008, there were 52 deaths but only 1,260 cases. There were 41 deaths and 2,258 cases in 2009. Last year saw the highest number of cases so far with 3,172 but the lowest number of fatality with 22 deaths.

The 10 barangays with the highest number of dengue cases reported are were San Nicolas (54 cases), Punta Princessa (43 cases with one death), Labangon (40 cases with one death), Sambag 2 (40 cases), Mambaling (35 cases), Guadalupe (31 cases), Tisa (31 cases with one death), Kamputhaw (30 cases with two deaths), Lahug (25 cases) and Duljo Fatima (24 cases).

The situation in Guadalupe has improved with the barangay sliding down to sixth rank from last year’s third rank.

The other deaths due to dengue were recorded in Barangays Pasil, Budlaan and Talamban.

During yesterday’s launch of the nationwide anti-dengue campaign of SNI Philippines in coordination with the city government through the CHD, SNI Philippines introduced the IgCó Natural Colostrum, a dairy product developed as defense against dengue infection.

IgCó is a milk product that all people of various ages can take to boost their immune system thereby protecting the body from bacterial and viral infection, especially dengue infection.

IgCó contains immunoglobins that function as antibodies, Lactoferrin that is a global glycoprotein and interferons that is released by host cells to warn other cells of the presence of pathogens. Dr. Joel Jabile, Consultant of SNI Philippines said that when the immune system of a person is strong, it is difficult for the virus to attack the cells.

IgCó is promoted not only for the prevention of dengue infection but also to cure those who have already been inflicted with the virus.

Jabile clarified that IgCó is not a drug but food that people can take to boost their immune system. Its difference with other immune system booster is that it is made of Colostrum, which is reportedly the only natural food containing antibodies. — (FREEMAN)