National Dengue Awareness Month is observed every June by virtue of Proclamation No. 1204 on April 21, 1998 by then President Fidel V. Ramos. Dengue has been considered by the DOH as an all-year round disease which rises in incidence during the rainy season due to presence of more breeding places for disease-causing aedes aegypti type of mosquitoes.
This awareness is observed to highlight how prevention and control of dengue would require collaborative efforts among national and local government agencies as well as private NGOs.
Prevention is observed by practicing tried and tested prevention measures—search and destroy, self-protect, seek early consultation and say yes to fogging—also known as the “4S” method.
To raise awareness of the 4S method, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is conducting a series of campaigns on dengue prevention through its 104 chapters nationwide for the whole month of June, the Dengue Awareness Month.
According to the Department of Health’s latest report, 26,042 dengue cases were recorded from January 1 to March 31, a 17-percent decline from the 31,358 cases during the same period last year. The decline may be due to public awareness and vigilance through the 4S campaign.
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease that can lead to severe illness and life-threatening conditions, can be prevented by disposing of unusable tin cans, jars and bottles that can collect and hold water, as well as covering water drums and pails, replacing water in flower vases, and clearing roof gutters.
Filipinos, especially children, are also advised to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when going out, use mosquito repellent every day, and allow authorities to conduct fogging in case of impending outbreaks.
Suspected dengue patients are urged to seek treatment if symptoms—including high fever, joint and muscle pain, weakness, skin rashes, nose bleeding, abdominal pain, vomiting, dark-colored stools and breathing problems—last for more than two days.
PRC’s activities include community-based information drives through health assemblies, home visitations and distribution of information, education and communication materials on dengue—from preventive measures to symptoms.
Source: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2018/06/14/dengue-awareness-campaign-of-prc-begins/
