The province of Bohol has witnessed a concerning rise in dengue cases, resulting in five fatalities.
According to the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit’s Dengue Current Situation Report for the 22nd Morbidity Week (covering the period from January 1 to June 1, 2024), there have been a total of 2,518 confirmed dengue cases.
This figure represents a staggering 314.1% increase compared to the same period last year, during which only 608 cases were reported.
Majority of cases have affected males, with females accounting for 53.49% of victims.
Among the age groups, children aged 5 to 10 years have been hit the hardest, constituting 28.71% of those affected.
The cities and towns most impacted by dengue-related deaths include Tagbilaran, President Carlos P. Garcia, Jetafe, Inabanga, and Dauis. Inabanga has reported the highest number of cases, with 419 instances (16.64%), followed by Tagbilaran City (224 cases, 8.90%), Buenavista (129 cases, 5.12%), Jetafe (124 cases, 4.92%), and Tubigon (95 cases, 3.73%).
Other municipalities in the top 10 include Panglao (93 cases), Ubay (91 cases), Dauis (88 cases), Talibon (87 cases), and Loay (84 cases).
Dr. Cesar Tomas “Yul” Lopez, the Provincial Health Officer, urgently appeals to all Boholanos to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings and take necessary precautions against stagnant water, which serves as breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
Vigilance and community action are crucial in preventing further spread of this mosquito-borne disease, Dr. Lopez said.
SYMPTOMS
Dengue fever presents with a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity. Common signs include:
1. High Fever: Sudden onset of high fever, often reaching up to 104°F (40°C).
2. Severe Headache: Intense pain, especially behind the eyes.
3. Joint and Muscle Pain: Aching muscles and joints, earning it the nickname “breakbone fever.”
4. Skin Rash: A rash that may appear a few days after the fever starts.
5. Mild Bleeding: Nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising.
In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), characterized by severe bleeding, organ failure, and shock.
If one is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Prevention involves mosquito control and avoiding bites.
CURE
Dengue fever doesn’t have a specific cure, but supportive treatment can help manage its symptoms. Here’s what Boholanos can do:
1. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, including water and oral rehydration solutions.
2. Rest: Allow your body to recover by getting adequate rest.
3. Pain Relief: Use pain relievers with acetaminophen to control fever and relieve pain. Avoid medicines containing aspirin, as they may worsen bleeding.
Remember to seek medical attention if you suspect dengue fever. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your condition, health officials said.
Dengue Cases on the Rise in Bohol: A Cause for Concern
The escalating number of dengue cases in Bohol has sparked anxiety among Boholanos.
According to data from the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (PESU), there is ample reason to be worried.
From January 1, 2024, to June 5, 2024, the province witnessed a significant surge in dengue cases, with the count reaching 2,518—up from 608 during the same period in 2023.
The onset of the rainy season exacerbates the situation, as stagnant water from rainfall becomes breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Health experts strongly advise people to eliminate any standing water to prevent mosquito proliferation.
Moreover, it is crucial for individuals to clear dark and damp areas, as these serve as potential mosquito breeding sites.
If someone displays symptoms of dengue, seeking immediate medical attention is essential to prevent the disease from worsening.
Dengue, a viral illness transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, tends to be most active during late afternoon and early evening. Notably, these mosquitoes do not fly at high altitudes, making unsuspecting small children particularly vulnerable.