DENGUE cases in Misamis Oriental have increased in the first half of this year compared to same period last year, according to the provincial health office (PHO).
Comparative data showed that 794 dengue cases were recorded from January to July, this year, while 763 incidents were noted in the same period last year.
The PHO noted that cases were higher in the months of May, June and July due to rainy season.
The top 10 towns or cities with the highest dengue cases are Gingoog City (188); Medina (90); Balingasag (59); Salay (57); Jasaan (52); Claveria (50); El Salvador City (38); Villanueva (37); Opol and Tagoloan (34); and Manticao (25).
Provincial health officer Dr. Jerrie Calingasan said the increasing cases were not yet considered alarming, though he said there were villages which were not infested with dengue in 2017, but have high cases this year.
“What is alarming today is that there were barangays last year nga walay cases unya naa karon,” Calingasan said.
“Dili man ingon ana gyud kaayo ka taas ang (it is not really high) increase sa same period last year,” he added.
Calingasan said the PHO is planning to conduct a province-wide simultaneous cleanup drive on August 17 to be spearheaded by rural health units in coordination with the Department of Health.
He said as early as today until August 16, health officers in each town will be conducting community organizing (Pulong-pulong) to restore the barangay dengue brigade in the aim to fight dengue.