City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite reminded the public to take precautionary measures and help prevent and control the spread of dengue hemorrhagic fever, a mosquito-borne disease caused by the dengue virus.

Apart from being so conscious and aware about the dreaded novel coronavirus or 2019-nCoV, people should not disregard other diseases to include dengue, incidences of which continue grow the past weeks and months. 

As of January 25, 2020, various barangays have reported a number of dengue cases. Sta. Maria had 9 cases, San Roque-5, Canelar, Mercede, Sta. Catalina and Sinubong registered 5 cases each, Ayala, Calarian and Sangali had 3 cases each while Guiwan had 2 cases.

Miravite urged the public to constantly practice the 4S habit that include search and destroy mosquito-breeding places; self-protection measures; seek early consultation and say no to indiscriminate fogging.

Potential mosquito-breeding places are stagnant water, uncovered water containers, flower vases and unused tires among others.

Health authorities say that symptoms typically begin three to fourteen days after infection. These may include a high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash. (Sheila Covarrubias)