On April 21, 1998, the late President Fidel Ramos proclaimed June as National Dengue Awareness Month through Proclamation No. 1204. Fast forward to June 8, 2023, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control’s website reveals that there have been a total of 2,162,214 dengue cases reported worldwide, resulting in 974 deaths. Shockingly, the Philippines ranks second among Asian countries in terms of dengue cases.
The Epidemiology Bureau of the Department of Health reported a staggering 30% increase in dengue cases from January 1 to May 20, 2023. The total number of cases reached 51,323, with 176 deaths recorded within this period. While the National Capital Region had the highest number of reported cases, the Mimaropa region experienced the highest increase in incidence and recorded the most deaths.
Looking at these statistics, it’s clear that the numbers alone are not enough to convey the severity of the situation. Dengue remains a significant public health threat due to the lack of effective interventions that could prevent and control its spread, thereby reducing both morbidity and mortality.
To tackle this growing problem, a multipronged and concerted approach is required from all stakeholders. Everyone must be seriously invested and accountable, working together to implement strategies and interventions. This includes a national program focused on dengue prevention and control.
Now, let’s delve into the nature of dengue. It is a self-limiting viral disease transmitted through the bite of an infected female mosquito. Two species of mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, are primarily responsible for the spread of dengue. Therefore, areas where these mosquitoes are present are at risk of dengue transmission. The virus is acquired when an infected mosquito feeds on a human. It is worth noting that infection can occur multiple times due to the presence of four serotypes, each requiring specific immunity.
While dengue is often regarded as a pediatric disease, affecting mostly individuals under 15 years old, adolescents and adults are also susceptible. Elderly individuals with comorbidities are at a greater risk of mortality. Symptoms vary and are often nonspecific, including fever lasting more than 24 hours, headache, eye pain, muscle or joint pains, nausea, vomiting, and rash. In severe cases, hemorrhagic manifestations may occur, potentially leading to shock or death. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical consultation if warning signs such as persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, lethargy, restlessness, bleeding, or lack of urine output are present.
Given that there is currently no cure or effective vaccine for dengue, everyone can contribute to its prevention by being proactive. The 5S strategy is particularly helpful in limiting the interaction between the mosquito vector and the host. By keeping our environment clean and eliminating breeding sites, we can prevent mosquitoes from propagating. Further preventive measures include wearing light-colored clothing, using insect repellants, and providing screens to keep mosquitoes out of our homes or offices.
In areas identified as “hot spots,” supporting fogging activities can be beneficial. If experiencing dengue symptoms, it’s essential to stay hydrated with oral electrolyte solutions and fresh fruit juices. Sports drinks are not recommended substitutes. Additionally, consuming small frequent meals, monitoring urine output and body temperature, and seeking early medical consultation in the presence of warning signs are crucial. Lowering body temperature is not an indication of recovery but a warning sign of entering the critical phase with potential complications.
Having provided an overview of dengue and acknowledging the alarming rise in cases, it’s high time that dengue receives the attention and priority it deserves, alongside other public health concerns. Merely promoting awareness is not enough; we must take action now!
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