10 areas with highest dengue cases bared

CEBU, Philippines - The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has named the 10 municipalities and cities that recorded the most number of dengue cases as of August 12, 2013.

The City of Carcar reported the highest number of cases which reached to 342. There was an increase of 236 compared to the last year’s 106 cases. Large numbers of dengue cases were also reported in the cities of Toledo, 153; and Talisay, 133. The municipalities of Argao,195; Balamban,158; Asturias,123; Sibonga,105; San Fernando,91; Minglanilla,77; and Pinamungajan,76.

IPHO acting chief Dr. Cynthia Genesolango was saddened by the drastic increase of the number of dengue cases reported in the province.

As of August 12 this year, 2,200 cases were recorded. There was an increase of 357 from the last year’s 1,843 cases in the same period.

The record also shows 11 mortalities in the month of August alone. Genesolango is worried that the mortality rate may even be higher this year because as of August 12 there were already seven fatalities.

The IPHO also reiterated that the first round of massive larvicide dengue operation is set on Saturday and Sunday (August 17-18) as way of eradicating dengue in the environment.

This four-round operation is part of the Dengue-Free Philippines Movement which will last until next year. (FREEMAN)