MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – The Department of Health in Ilocos Region (DOH-1) has called on all local government units (LGUs) and agencies to intensify efforts in preventing dengue by conducting daily mosquito-breeding site elimination activities at 4 p.m.
“Let us make it a habit to clean our surroundings so mosquitoes will not have breeding grounds, which are the main carriers of dengue virus. This is to protect ourselves and our family. The fight against dengue is a collaborative effort that includes the active participation of everyone,” DOH-1 Director Paula Paz Sydiongco said in a statement on Thursday.
She said the regional office has already turned over anti-dengue supplies to LGUs in July 2024, including misting machines, backpack sprayers, insecticides, and Olyset nets.
These will reinforce existing local efforts, particularly in areas experiencing a surge in dengue cases.
LGUs have already implemented vector control measures, including weekly clean-up drives and misting operations in public areas to reduce mosquito populations.
According to the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, 884 dengue cases were recorded from Jan. 1 to Feb. 15, 2025 —double the 441 cases reported in the same period in 2024.
Pangasinan reported the highest number with 447 cases, followed by La Union (176), Ilocos Sur (134), Ilocos Norte (71), and Dagupan City (56). (PNA)
