First dengue death in Iloilo City this year; health office on high alert

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Iloilo City has recorded its first dengue-related death this year. CHO Head Dr. Annabelle Tang reported during a press conference that the victim was a 69-year-old woman from Barangay Tabuc Suba, Jaro.

She explained that the victim succumbed to the disease after her condition deteriorated to its late stages by the time she was admitted to the hospital.

The patient exhibited severe symptoms upon arrival, including jaundice, and was also found to be suffering from leptospirosis and kidney disease.

The total number of dengue cases in the city has reached 273 from January 1 to July 20, with six barangays experiencing clusters of cases.

Health officials continue to urge residents to take preventive measures against dengue, such as eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.

They further advised seeking immediate medical consultation upon the first signs of dengue, such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding (such as nose or gum bleeding).

Dr. Tang emphasized the importance of community cooperation in combating the spread of dengue and other vector-borne diseases, especially during the rainy season when the risk is higher.

“We have to be on high alert because it’s the rainy season,” Dr. Tang said.

In response to the rising cases, the city government is preparing a hydration unit on the second floor of the La Paz Maternity and Reproductive Health Center.

Expected to be operational by the end of this week, the unit will have 25 hospital beds, complete with medical staff and supplies.

Previously used as a quarantine facility, this unit will function similarly to an infirmary, offering short-term hydration support.

“If the patient needs to be hydrated for more than 24 to 48 hours, then the patient has to be admitted,” Dr. Tang explained.

Additionally, all 180 barangays in Iloilo City are conducting a simultaneous cleanup drive every Saturday to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites.