by: Alice Sicat
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) —The Quezon City government has conducted extensive spraying and fogging operations across the city’s 142 barangays to combat a dengue outbreak that has claimed 10 lives, including a 9-month-old infant.
The initiative, led by the Quezon City Health Department, commenced on February 17, with operations starting in Barangay Escopa III and other areas reporting confirmed dengue cases.
Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Rolando Cruz noted that approximately 76 barangays are under close monitoring, as dengue cases in these regions have exceeded the epidemic threshold.
“We did not expect an outbreak such as this,” Cruz stated. “Usually, we only record low cases of dengue at this time, but the intermittent rains have likely increased breeding sites, especially in areas with poor sanitation.”
Dengue cases typically decline during the months of December, January, and February; however, this year has seen a significant rise.
Current data shows over 1,700 reported dengue cases in Quezon City, a staggering increase compared to more than 600 cases during the same period last year.
“This is more than triple the number compared to last year,” Cruz added.
To mitigate the spread of dengue-carrying mosquitoes, health officials have been spraying alleys and streets throughout the city.
Additionally, community lectures on dengue prevention and clean-up drives are being held to engage residents in the fight against the illness.
It can be recalled that the city declared a dengue outbreak on February 15, following the deaths of 10 patients, eight of whom were 17 years or younger.
In light of the outbreak, residents experiencing symptoms such as fever are urged to visit the nearest health center for evaluation and care.
The local government’s proactive measures aim to protect public health and reduce the impact of the ongoing dengue outbreak in the community. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
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