By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The number of dengue-related fatalities in Negros Occidental has now reached 37 based on the latest records from the Provincial Health Office.
The department said, from January 1 to August 19 of this year, they have recorded around 5,990 dengue cases, an increase of 60 percent compared to the same period last year.
Records also show Cadiz City and Cauayan had the highest number of fatalities with four each; followed by Himamaylan City, San Carlos City, and Kabankalan City with three deaths apiece.
Earlier, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said he recently met with health officials to remind them that dengue fever remains prevalent and requires cooperation from the community.
“There’s no question that local government units are now on heightened alert trying to minimize the number of cases,” he insisted./DGB, WDJ