INTERIOR Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. yesterday urged local government units to be proactive in the campaign against dengue in the wake of reports that dengue cases have increased to nearly 150 percent compared to last year.
“Dengue remains to be a public health threat and with the escalating cases in the country today, LGUs must take a proactive stance and implement strategies to protect our people in the communities from this deadly disease,” said Abalos.
Abalos issued the statement after the Department of Health said it has already recorded 118,785 dengue cases from January to August 13 this year, 143 percent higher compared to the same period last year.
Abalos told the LGUs to intensify clean-up drives to prevent the spread of dengue in communities, adding the country has succeeded in addressing dengue outbreaks in the past.
He expressed confidence the campaign can be won again with the active involvement of the LGUs.
“We are expecting that the LGUs will be leading the effort to stop the increasing dengue cases in the communities,” Abalos said, adding LGUs may activate the Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue or ABKD in the fight against dengue.
He noted that the ABKD has been institutionalized since 2012 and has led to victories in the campaign against the disease.
Abalos said local chief executives are expected to monitor the health situation in their areas and provide dengue data to partner agencies and ensure dengue patients are given proper medical attention.
He also urged the public to help in the campaign against dengue by observing enhanced 4S or search and destroy breeding sites, self- protection measures, seek early consultation, and support fogging/spraying drives.
“What we learned during the pandemic is that the government cannot eliminate a disease alone,” said Abalos, referring to the ongoing fight against COVID-19. “We need the cooperation of the people so that our efforts against dengue will be successful. Let’s help each other.”
