By JEN BAYLON

Negros Occidental is grappling with a severe dengue outbreak, reporting 509 cases from January 1 to February 1, a staggering 335.04 percent increase compared to the 117 cases recorded during the same period last year, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) said.

The surge has resulted in three confirmed dengue-related deaths in the province.

According to PHO’s latest Dengue Fever Surveillance Update, Bago City has the highest number of cases with 117.

It is followed by San Carlos City with 44 cases and one death.

The cities of Kabankalan, Silay and Talisay have also reported significant numbers.

The age group most affected by the outbreak is between 11 and 20 years old, PHO data showed.

Local health officials urge the Negrenses to stay vigilant and take preventive measures against dengue.

Earlier, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called for an intensified campaign against dengue amid the spike in cases.

“It’s not rocket science to prevent dengue. It’s all about cleaning your community,” Lacson said.

“If anyone feels sick, especially the children, they should right away have themselves checked at the nearest rural health clinic if it is dengue or not,” he added.

Local health officials continue to remind the residents to implement the 4S strategy against dengue, which includes:

* Search and destroy mosquito-breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and containers

* Self-protection measures like applying insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants

* Seek early consultation with a doctor or health worker for any symptoms

* Support fogging or spraying in a local hotspot or outbreak areas where an increase in cases is registered

Dengue is spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, and causes a severe flu-like illness that can sometimes be fatal./JB, WDJ