BUTUAN CITY - The Department of Health (DoH) has intensi?ed an anti-dengue drive in the Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) following the alarming incidence of dengue cases that already affected 678 people, mostly children, from January to June 14 this year, it was learned Friday. The DoH Caraga posted an advisory on Friday to local government units (LGU's) and other concerned government agencies to intensify mitigating measures and information drive against the dreaded disease.
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According to DoH Caraga Epediomology and Survielance Unit, the 44% increase i dengue cases compared to those during the previous year needs a "unified action" from all concerned government agencies, particularly the barangay officials. The DoH Caraga has recorded 160 dengue cases in Butuan City, 173 cases in Agusan del Sur, 175 in Surigao del Sur, 84 in Agusan del Norte, 38 in Surigao City, 18 in Bislig City and 30 cases in Surigao del Norte during this year's first semester. However, DoH-Caraga reports did not mention dengue deaths as validation is still going on from various hospitals in the region's six cities and four provinces. As of press time, DoH Region Xlll Regional Director Dr. Leonita P. Gorgolon have instructed all the integrated provincial, city, and community health of?cers and all health providers in the region to strengthen information campaign to help protect their constituents and institute the right and effective ways to combat dengue.
Her specific order is "to carry out all efforts to address dengue problem in their respective areas of jurisdictions". She appealed to all local officials and concerned government agencies, as well as those belonging to the private sector, to join the Health Department in conducting information drive to promote sound practices against the spread of dengue, especially now that the rainy season is about to begin. Meanwhile, Butuan City Mayor Dr. Ferdinand Amante, Jr. on Friday immediately mobilized city and community health officers to "go on the ground" and lead the mitigating measures against the spread of the dreaded disease.