Due to dengue epidemic, Baguio may relax school dress code

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio Health Services Office has recommended that the local government and the Education department to suspend requiring students to wear skirts as part of their uniform.

Dr. Donnabel Tubera, infectious cluster head of the City Health Services Office said the skirts expose the students to the risk of being bitten by dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

There has been a 24-percent increase in dengue cases from January 1 to July 29 this year—at least 280 cases against 220 in the same period in 2018. There has already been one dengue-related death in the city this year.

Tubera also said leggings made of thin material will not protect against mosquito bites. Thick pants, socks and long-sleeved clothes are preferred, she said. 

Earlier in July 23, Benguet Gov. Melchor Diclas, a physician, ordered public schools district supervisors and principals in the province to suspend the wearing of skirts during the rainy season upon the recommendation of the Provincial Health Office.

Data from the Provincial Health Office shows that there are 451 reported suspected dengue cases from January 1 to June 15, 2019 with a 30.34-percent increase as against 346 cases the previous year.