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Dr. Alinader Minalang underscored the significance of united action in combating dengue. He said that by raising awareness, implementing preventive measures, and fostering community collaboration, they can effectively combat this deadly disease and ensure the well-being of all. (Photo by DCC/PIA-10)
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- Health officials from the Ministry of Health (MOH) in the Bangsamoro region and the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) urged members of the public and all stakeholders to take urgent collective action to rid their surroundings of mosquito-breeding sites to prevent dengue and the loss of lives.
I hope the barangays will get back to cleaning their surroundings and getting rid of stagnant water every four o'clock because that's a big help for us to combat dengue," said Johaira Macacua-Ali, MOH's Regional Dengue Program Coordinator, during the kickoff of the dengue awareness month campaign in the city.
She stressed that dengue, while endemic, is now not limited to any particular season. Therefore, communities must stay alert and take proactive measures to combat this mosquito-borne disease, which is also linked to inadequate sanitation.
Dr. Alinader Minalang, head of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) in Lanao del Sur, also emphasized the critical need for community action to combat dengue fever as the nation marks another round of dengue awareness month.
He said that recent statistics underscored the urgency of the situation, with Lanao del Sur reporting 2,142 dengue cases and nearly 1,000 cases in Marawi City alone in 2023. From January to May 2024, the city already had 490 cases.
Minalang also urged individuals to take proactive measures within their homes to mitigate the risk of dengue transmission.
"Dispose of waste properly. And the containers that have water need to be disposed of. These are simple things that we can do in our homes, in our offices. And of course, to spread this awareness, to spread the campaign to educate our neighbors, our family, our friends, about prevention measures and encourage them to do the same," Minalang stated.
He explained that the changing environmental conditions, characterized by high temperatures and then heavy rainfall, create favorable breeding grounds for mosquitoes. As such, he highlighted the need for vigilant monitoring of mosquito activity, particularly during early mornings and late afternoons.
"As people of Marawi and Lanao del Sur, we must come together to address these challenges and protect ourselves and our loved ones from this potentially deadly disease," urged Minalang.
The city government meanwhile reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of its communities. "Dengue fever remains a significant public health challenge in Marawi, but we can make substantial strides to reduce its impact through collaborative efforts and proactive measures," said Mayor Majul Gandamra.
Accordingly, the City Health Office is actively monitoring dengue cases in the city and working closely with the City Schools Division of Marawi to raise awareness among students and educators. "This partnership ensures that our young citizens are well-informed and proactive in the fight against dengue," added Gandamra. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
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