By Xander Ledesma
Dengue cases in Bacolod City have risen sharply, showing a 312.2 percent increase as of October 19, 2024, compared to the same period last year. Data from the City Health Office (CHO) indicate a total of 1,987 reported cases and five fatalities this year, up from 482 cases and three deaths in 2023.
CHO records show that Barangay Taculing recorded the highest number of cases with 234, followed by Barangay Bata (166), Barangay Estefania (154), Barangay Mansilingan (152), Barangay Villamonte (130), and several other barangays with substantial numbers of cases.
Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO Environment Sanitation Division, said the health office has been conducting spraying and fogging activities in various barangays and schools to control the spread. She reminded residents that dengue-carrying mosquitoes breed in stagnant, clear water and that dengue patients risk dehydration, which can lead to low blood pressure and shock.
Dr. Tan urged the public to follow the Department of Health’s 4S program: “Search and destroy” mosquito-breeding sites, “Self-protection” through long clothing and repellent, “Seek early consultation” for symptoms, and “Support fogging/spraying” in high-risk areas.