Iloilo City Calls for Vigilance vs. Dengue in Dry Season

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City Health Office (CHO) has reminded the public to stay vigilant against dengue, warning that the intense summer heat does not prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Dr. Jan Reygine Ansino-Hortinela, Medical Officer III of the Iloilo City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, clarified that despite reduced rainfall during the dry season, even small pools of stagnant water can serve as breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

“Even if it’s just a small amount of water, mosquitoes can still lay eggs,” she said.

“Actually, if the water is deep, it’s more likely that the mosquito won’t be able to make eggs. The summer can’t stop them from reproducing.”

Ansino-Hortinela emphasized that regular cleaning remains one of the most effective ways to combat dengue.

She cited the significant drop in dengue cases during the COVID-19 pandemic when households were more conscious of sanitation.

CHO data showed that the city has recorded a total of 156 dengue cases as of April 5 — a 6 percent decrease from the 166 cases and one death recorded during the same period last year.

The most affected age group is children aged 1 to 10 years.

The CHO noted that highly congested areas with poor sanitation continue to be hotspots for dengue transmission.

Ansino-Hortinela urged residents to keep their surroundings clean and dry to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and stressed the need for community-wide cooperation.

“We’re doing our part. We’re asking the people to do their part,” she said.

Among the barangays recognized for strong dengue prevention efforts is Barangay Bantud in La Paz, which has recorded zero dengue cases since last year due to consistent weekly cleanup drives held every Saturday.

Barangay So-oc currently has the highest number of dengue cases, with six reported.

It is followed by five cases each in Barangays Molo Boulevard, Tagbak, Calaparan, Sambag, Jereos, Tabuc Suba, Lanit, and Bakhaw.

Clustering of dengue cases has also been documented in Calumpang and Tagbak.

The CHO has so far conducted misting operations in around 60 of the city’s 180 barangays.

Ansino-Hortinela noted that transportation for misting teams remains a challenge, particularly in reaching remote barangays.