Dengue Deaths in Iloilo Reach 11: Health Officials Urge Early Consultation

Health officials in Iloilo City are urging early consultation at the onset of dengue symptoms as the number of dengue-related deaths in the region has reached 11 this year, compared to six deaths in the same period last year.

The most recent fatality was a 27-year-old woman from San Rafael in northern Iloilo who died shortly after being admitted to a hospital in Iloilo City on June 24. The patient exhibited early dengue symptoms but only sought medical care after complications arose.

Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, head of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO), emphasized the importance of immediate medical attention upon observing dengue signs such as vomiting and high fever. Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.

While mild dengue cases can be managed at home, they should still be reported to the rural health unit (RHU) for proper monitoring of blood count and platelet levels.

As of July 12, Iloilo has reported 2,927 dengue cases, with 247 new infections in just one week, marking a 20.8% increase from last year. Currently, 71 dengue patients are hospitalized across the province.

Colmenares-Quiñon cautioned that delayed hospital admission decreases the chances of survival, urging communities to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and adhere to the '4S' strategy: Search and destroy breeding sites, Seek early consultation, Self-protect, and Support fogging in hotspot areas.

Consistency in these preventive measures is crucial to combat dengue during the rainy season.

According to the source: The Manila Times.