Quezon City declares dengue outbreak

MANILA, Philippines — Following a significant increase in dengue cases in recent weeks, the Quezon City government on Saturday declared an outbreak and mobilized all units to curb the surge.

“Our declaration of a dengue outbreak ensures that we are on top of the situation, and we are doing everything we can to protect our residents from this deadly disease, especially our children,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a press briefing.

“Most of those affected by this deadly disease are children. That is why I am calling on my fellow parents to join forces in protecting them against dengue. Let us stay alert to any symptoms our children may experience and take the lead in cleanup drives in our communities,” she added in Filipino.

From Jan. 1 to Feb. 14, the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division (CESD) recorded 1,769 cases, almost 200 percent higher than the number of cases during the same period last year.

More than half are school-aged children from five to 17 years.

According to the city government, 10 residents, including eight minors, have already died from the disease this year.

Belmonte said the declaration of an outbreak would enable the city to mobilize all its assets and resources to address the rising cases. She directed all 66 health centers in the city to be open during weekends, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to accommodate all possible dengue patients.

A fever express lane will be set up in health centers and city-operated hospitals to attend to patients with fever, which is a common symptom of dengue.

“QCitizens, if you are experiencing symptoms of dengue, such as fever, headache and joint pain, go to the nearest health center in your area immediately,” said Belmonte.

Dengue test kits are available in the centers and hospitals.

The city government deployed barangay teams and sanitary inspectors to conduct spraying and fogging in areas with clustering of dengue cases.

The CESD urged residents to protect themselves by using mosquito repellant and wearing of personal protective clothing, like long sleeves and long pants.

Residents are urged to make sure there is no stagnant water in their houses or drainage systems.

“Used containers, tires, pots and other items that collect water should be emptied. Standing water stuck in these items can serve as a breeding ground for dengue-carrying mosquitoes,” the city government said.

As part of the city’s initiatives, pre-clinic lectures as well as dengue awareness assemblies and forums will be conducted in barangays.

Barangay officials and school administrators are also being briefed regarding the outbreak, the local government added.