KORONADAL CITY, Philippines – Central Mindanao’s preparation for the coming 2014 Palarong Pambansa suffered a blow when seven of its athletes were afflicted with dengue.
A medical bulletin released yesterday by the local office of the Department of Education (DepEd) said the seven athletes contracted dengue while staying and practicing at the Koronadal Central Elementary School (KCES).
The 2014 Palarong Pambansa will be held from May 4 to 10 in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
Training officials believe the athletes fell ill when they were practicing on Friday afternoon at the school’s sports ground.
Central Mindanao DepEd regional director Allan Farnazo said the athletes were brought to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital after they complained of fever and rashes on their bodies.
Of the seven victims, only one remained at the hospital for further observation as of press time. The six others were discharged.
The DepEd regional office reportedly paid for the medical expenses of the athletes.
Farnazo said a fogging operation was conducted at the KCES, particularly in areas believed to be the breeding ground of the dengue-carrying mosquitoes. He advised the athletes to take precautions against dengue.