The Cebu City Health Department (CCHD) has called on Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia to declare a public health emergency due to a surge in dengue cases, reaching 597 as of Friday.
Dr. Daisy Villa, head of CCHD, emphasized that such a declaration could boost public awareness and preventive actions, citing eight dengue-related deaths this year compared to none last year.
While Mayor Garcia recognizes the severity of the situation, he believes further discussion is needed before making an emergency declaration.
He has directed the CCHD to implement immediate countermeasures, including misting operations and distributing insecticide-treated curtains.
The outbreak has notably affected barangays like Cogon Pardo and Buhisan, with a marked increase in cases since August, prompting health officials to stress vigilance and adherence to the Department of Health’s 4S strategy.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 9, 2024
