DOH-7 Urges Public to Adopt 4S Strategy Against Dengue in Central Visayas

CEBU CITY — The Department of Health in Region 7 (DOH-7) has called on residents of Central Visayas to adopt the “4S” strategy to fight dengue fever, especially with the onset of the rainy season which typically sees a rise in dengue cases.

According to Philippines News Agency, head of the Communicable Diseases Section at DOH-7, the 4S strategy includes searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, taking self-protection measures such as wearing long pants and sleeves and using mosquito repellent, seeking early consultation for fever, and supporting appropriate spraying or fogging in high-risk areas. He emphasized the importance of eliminating breeding grounds for mosquitoes as a primary defense. “If there are one to two dengue cases recorded in your barangay, we should not demand misting and fogging because it does not have a huge effect anyway,” Dr. Buscato explained.

The call for heightened vigilance followed an announcement by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) last week declaring the start of the rainy season. Dr. Buscato also reminded the public that rapid diagnostic testing for dengue is available at no cost in public hospitals and rural health centers, encouraging those with symptoms to seek medical evaluation promptly.