THE Zamboanga City Health Office has advised residents to practice protective measures against dengue as cases increased by more than 200 percent in the first quarter of 2019.
Dr. Dulce Miravite, head of the City Health Office, said a total of 935 cases were recorded in the first three months of the year compared to only 300 cases in the same period of 2018.
The City Health Office recorded 454 cases in January, 285 in February, and 196 in
March this year.
Miravite said that while the numbers are not in the epidemic threshold level, they are intensifying the monitoring as well as information and education advocacy.
To prevent dengue, the health officer advised the residents to eliminate standing or stagnant water, particularly in gutters or containers in and around the house as these are prime breeding places for mosquitoes.
She also encouraged the residents to use mosquito repellents and clothing which cover the arms and legs to prevent mosquito bites.
