BONTOC, Mountain Province – In an effort to combat the rising cases of dengue and chikungunya in Mountain Province (MP), the Provincial Health Board (PHB) chaired by Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr. and co-chaired by Provincial Health Officer Annie Claire B. Pekas recommended different mitigating measures to the body.
The strategies were discussed during an emergency meeting of the PHB held at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Provincial Plaza, on August 6, 2024, which aimed to address the alarming increase in mosquito-borne diseases in the region.
Engineer Kathleen P. Wayyas of the Bontoc General Hospital reported a total of 1,800 dengue cases in MP from January to August 3, 2024, with 48 new dengue cases and three chikungunya cases recorded in the first five days of August alone. Additionally, 34 dengue patients were hospitalized across various health facilities in the province.
Provincial Veterinarian Rodelio B. Bagawi proposed the training of a dedicated vector control officer within the Provincial Health Office to enhance mosquito control measures. Emphasizing the significance of understanding mosquito behavior and life cycles, Bagawi stressed the importance of this role in combating the global threat posed by mosquitoes.
In addition, Bagawi recommended a balanced approach to address mosquito-borne diseases, advocating for the judicious use of chemical methods like spraying and fogging, while also promoting biological alternatives such as plant-based repellents.
Municipal Health Officer Diga Kay Gomez sought support from the provincial government and the Provincial Department of Health Office (PDOHO) for additional sprayers and training on fogging procedures to bolster mosquito control efforts.
Furthermore, the PDOHO reiterated the importance of the 4S approach in dengue prevention, emphasizing the need to search and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, practice self-protection, seek early medical consultation, and support fogging and spraying initiatives.
Meanwhile, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), Board Members Joshua B. Fronda, Chairperson of the SP Committee on Health, Sanitation and Social Services; Henry D. Bastian, Jr., Chairperson of the SP Committee on Budget and Appropriations, Public Works, Highways and Infrastructure; and Tomas B. Tawagen, the Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative, were also present to give support to the activity. By DCF
