Philippines: Dengue fever outbreak in Calabarzon region

Event

A dengue fever outbreak has been reported in the Calabarzon region. According to health officials, at least 5310 cases have been reported in 2018 as of March 31. Authorities have implemented public health measures, including vaccination campaigns, to hinder further spread of the mosquito-borne disease. Efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds are also to be anticipated.

Context

Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rashes. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, the enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging.

Advice

Individuals in the Philippines, particularly in the Calabarzon region, are advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites - by wearing covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito-netting or in an air conditioned room - and to eliminate possible mosquito breeding grounds (e.g. small pockets of fresh water, such as rain water that has collected in cans, bottles, tires, flower pots, clogged gutters, etc.).