Rise in Dengue Fatalities
Baguio City has reported a concerning increase in dengue fever-related deaths, with fatalities rising from seven to twelve. Despite a decrease in new cases, the city is experiencing unprecedented levels of dengue infections.
Severe Cases and Comorbidities
According to the Baguio City Health Services office, most of the dengue-related deaths occurred in individuals who were already in severe stages of the illness by the time they sought medical consultation. Additionally, many adult victims had pre-existing health conditions that contributed to the severity of their cases.
Record-Breaking Number of Cases
As of August 22, 2024, Baguio City has recorded a total of 5,505 dengue cases, marking the highest number in the city's history. This figure represents a staggering 753% increase compared to the 645 cases reported last year.
Factors Contributing to High Case and Death Rates
During a meeting on August 16, the Baguio City Anti-Dengue Task Force identified two main factors contributing to the high case and death rates. First, there has been a failure to implement preventive measures at the household level, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Second, delays in seeking early medical consultation have been a significant factor in the fatalities.
A health worker expressed frustration over the continued presence of mosquito-breeding sites despite public awareness campaigns. "The problem is really behavioral," the health worker noted. "We conduct 'denguerra' at the barangay level, but we cannot clean inside every house for the residents."
"Denguerra" Campaign and Community Efforts
The city has launched a comprehensive campaign against dengue fever called "denguerra," focusing on both prevention and control. The Sanitation Division of the City Health Services has been active in at least ten barangays, checking compliance with the city's Anti-Dengue Ordinance (Ordinance 66-2016). Sanitation Inspector Miller Balisongen reported that 241 households were found in violation of the ordinance and have been required to perform community service as a penalty for the first offense.
Implementation of the Anti-Dengue Ordinance
In response to the rising case numbers, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong has intensified the enforcement of the Anti-Dengue Ordinance. This ordinance prohibits the following actions:
- Storing water in containers that are not tightly covered
- Keeping water-filled vases and using ornamental plants with pot saucers
- Discarding tires, discharging wastewater onto streets, and conducting chemical control methods without proper clearance
Violations can result in community service, fines, and even imprisonment depending on the number of offenses.
Enhanced Preventive Measures
The City Health Services continues to enforce preventive measures, including strengthening case surveillance and conducting public awareness campaigns through the "Denguerra - War against Dengue" program. This program mobilizes barangays for simultaneous search and destroy operations every Thursday to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, larvicides are being used in critical areas to control mosquito populations.
New Online Reporting System
To improve surveillance and case tracking, the city has launched an online system for reporting dengue cases. This new system integrates data from health laboratories and citizen self-reports. Residents can report cases through this online form.
Moving Forward in the Fight Against Dengue
Baguio City's battle against dengue fever is ongoing, with a strong emphasis on both community participation and effective enforcement of health regulations. By addressing the identified behavioral issues and enhancing preventive measures, the city aims to reduce dengue cases and fatalities in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the current dengue situation in Baguio City?
Baguio City is experiencing a severe dengue outbreak with 5,505 reported cases and 12 deaths. This surge represents an unprecedented increase in dengue cases for the city.
2. How did Baguio City respond to the dengue outbreak?
The city has intensified its response through the "denguerra" campaign, which includes strict enforcement of the anti-dengue ordinance, community clean-up drives, and improved surveillance systems.
3. What are the key points of Baguio City's anti-dengue ordinance?
The ordinance prohibits actions such as storing water in uncovered containers and keeping discarded tires or water-filled vases, aiming to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and enforce penalties for non-compliance.
4. How can residents avoid penalties related to dengue prevention?
Residents should follow the anti-dengue ordinance, which includes properly managing water storage and removing potential mosquito breeding sites. Violators face community service, fines, or imprisonment depending on the offense.
5. What preventive measures are being implemented to combat dengue in Baguio City?
Preventive measures include regular search and destroy operations in barangays, the use of larvicides in critical areas, and public awareness campaigns to educate residents about dengue prevention.
6. How does the new online reporting system aid in managing dengue cases?
The online reporting system integrates data from health laboratories and allows residents to self-report cases, enhancing surveillance and ensuring accurate tracking of dengue incidents.
7. What are the penalties for violating the anti-dengue ordinance?
Penalties include community service, fines of up to P3,000, and possible imprisonment for repeated or severe violations, depending on the number of offenses and court discretion.
8. Why is early consultation important in dengue cases?
Early consultation is crucial because it can prevent severe complications and fatalities. Delays in seeking medical care can lead to worsening conditions and higher death rates.
9. What role do barangays play in Baguio City's dengue prevention efforts?
Barangays are essential in implementing the anti-dengue measures, conducting clean-up drives, and ensuring compliance with the ordinance to reduce mosquito breeding sites and dengue cases.
10. How can residents report dengue cases in Baguio City?
Residents can report dengue cases through the city's online reporting system, which helps integrate data from various sources to improve monitoring and response efforts.
