DOH seeks LGU coordination on dengue prevention

The Department of Health (DOH) yesterday advised local government units (LGUs) to work closely with regional and local health offices in employing measures proven effective to prevent dengue.

- RHODINA VILLANUEVA

DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said these measures include "search and destroy breeding sites, self-protection by applying anti-repellant lotions and wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, seeking early consultation and support fogging and misting in hotspot areas or the 4S strategy."

"Health is a devolved service and the DOH is reaching out to provide assistance and guidance in regional hospitals," said Domingo.

The DOH earlier said that apart from Quezon City, eight more areas in the country may declare a dengue outbreak. These areas are located across Calabarzon, Central Luzon and Metro Manila.

However, the DOH refused to identify the areas, saying "the LGUs have to be the one to make the declaration (of an outbreak), by law."

Dr. Rontgene Solante, meanwhile, urged LGUs to disclose if they are faced with increasing dengue cases.