Red Cross renews drive on dengue prevention

AS PART of the Dengue Awareness Month, the Department of Health (DOH) Cordillera through Philippine Red Cross Baguio City Chapter issues a campaign to increase awareness about dengue prevention.

With the theme “Kung Walang Lamok, Walang Dengue,” DOH and Philippine Red Cross urges everyone to observe the 4’S strategy against dengue which stands for Search and destroy breeding places; Support spraying to prevent impending outbreaks; Seek early consultation; and Secure self protection.

Dr. Melinda Flores, Philippine Red Cross Baguio City Chapter chairperson of blood services committee said they notice are cases of dengue in the community are increasing. Worse, there is also increase in the number of dengue patients who are dying. That is why; she emphasized the importance for citizens to be aware of what dengue is and how to prevent it.

“It is important for us in the community to prevent mosquitoes from increasing because they are the carriers of dengue,” Flores said.

In line with that, Red Cross is coordinating with barangays and acquiring health service volunteer staffs to go to different areas to hold dengue awareness activities.

They are also planning to have a meeting with newly elected and inducted barangay officials on July 13 to disseminate their advocacy and programs as well as recruitment of volunteers and blood donors.

With regards to dengue patients who are in need of platelets, Philippine Red Cross Baguio City Chapter observes that their supply is still manageable.

“In terms of supply for platelets for dengue patients, it’s still manageable. But, we are still continuously conducting blood donation activities be-

cause platelets concentration last only for 5 days. So, every other day we have the mobile blood donation,” Philippine Red Cross Baguio City Chapter, Chapter Administrator Anastascia Tamayo added.

Atty. Erdolfo Balajadia, chairman of Philippine Red Cross Baguio City Chapter reminded the citizens of Baguio to follow the guidelines given to them.

“They shouldn’t be neglectful because who knows they already have dengue. Prevention is still better than cure,” Balajadia concluded.