Calabarzon posts 5,000 dengue cases in 3 months

MANILA, Philippines — Over 5,000 dengue cases including 34 deaths have been recorded in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) in the first quarter of this year, the Department of Health (DOH) said yesterday.

The region reported a total of 5,310 dengue cases from Jan. 1 to March 31, according to DOH-Calabarzon director Eduardo Janairo.

Cavite had the highest number of cases with 1,937. 

Janairo advised parents to boost the immune system of their children, especially those  who were vaccinated with Dengvaxia.

He said there is a need to strengthen the immune system of the children as the result of the Dengvaxia probe has yet to be released.

“While waiting for the results of the probe, we have to give the children immunity-boosting phytonutrients such as Vitamin C, fruits and vegetables as well as ensure that they get adequate sleep,” Janairo said.

He said dengue kits distributed to the children should be complemented with well-balanced meals and sufficient fluid intake.

Calabarzon ranked second among regions with the most number of children vaccinated with Dengvaxia, followed by Central Luzon.  The National Capital Region has the highest number.

Health authorities estimated that about 830,000 pupils received the vaccine.

Data from the DOH regional epidemiological surveillance unit showed 2,674 public schools in Calabarzon participated in the Dengvaxia vaccination program. 

The health regional office released P1.6 million in medical assistance for children vaccinated with Dengvaxia.