By Katrina Gracia Consebido
Infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante said on Monday, July 11, that they are expecting an increase in the number of dengue cases in the country.
In the Laging Handa briefing, Solante said the nationwide dengue case increase was caused by changing “weather and also the population density.”
He said the Department of Health has already prepared a program to address rising numbers, while reiterating the significance of “environmental hygiene” to prevent dengue infection.
“Meron nang programa ng Department of Health in place at isa dito ang diagnosis in case management. Pero pinakaimportante pa rin dito ang environmental hygiene,” he said.
He also reminded the public to consult a doctor when they experience dengue infection symptoms to prevent any health complications.
“It is a matter of priority na maglinis ng environment, and at the same time kung meron nang mga sintomas, magpakonsulta kaagad sa mga doktor para hindi tayo mahuli sa mga komplikasyon,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said dengvaxia vaccine rollout should be first reviewed and must be in accordance with guidelines of health experts and the government to cover severe dengue patients.
“Itong benefit nitong bakuna ay intended for those population at high risk at getting dengue at high risk of hospitalization,” he said. –ag
