IMUS CITY, Cavite – The city health office of Imus reported 23 dengue cases as of January 12, 2024, with no confirmed deaths from the mosquito-borne disease.

According to Dr. Maria Lourdes Santos, the city health officer, the cases were classified as zero confirmed, 21 probable, and two suspected, based on the World Health Organization’s criteria.

Santos said the city health office was closely monitoring the situation and conducting preventive measures such as fogging, larviciding, and health education in the affected barangays.

She also urged the residents to protect themselves and their families against mosquito bites by applying insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and keeping their surroundings clean and free of stagnant water.

“Dengue is a serious and potentially fatal disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age or health status. We advise the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the symptoms of dengue, such as high fever, muscle and joint pain, weakness, loss of appetite, redness of the skin, stomach pain and vomiting, and bleeding from the nose and gums,” Santos said.

Imus City is one of the areas in Cavite province that has seen an increase in dengue cases this year. According to the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, Cavite recorded 1,499 dengue cases from January 1 to March 11, 2023, a 64% rise from the same period in 2022.

The cities of General Trias, Bacoor, and Imus had the highest number of cases, followed by the towns of Naic, Tanza, Rosario, Noveleta, and Silang.

The Department of Health (DOH) Calabarzon region has also warned of a spike in dengue cases in the area, especially among schoolchildren, and has distributed anti-dengue and other vector control supplies to schools.

The DOH has advised the public to follow the “4S” strategy to prevent dengue: search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, self-protection measures, seek early consultation, and support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas.