QC boosts drive vs dengue, leptospirosis amid 5 deaths

Quezon City Mayor Maria Josefina “Joy” Belmonte has ordered the City Health Department to intensify its drive against dengue and leptospirosis amid reported deaths.

The city’s Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit reported 1,160 cases of dengue from January 1 to June 24, 2023, with Barangay Tatalon recording the highest number of cases.

One death was reported in Barangay Krus na Ligas.

Meanwhile, there were 32 leptospirosis cases from January 1 to June 24, 2023. One death each was reported in Barangay Payatas, Barangay Old Balara, Barangay Pasong Tamo and Barangay Talipapa.

Belmonte urged residents to get tested for dengue should symptoms arise, and to practice self-protection measures such as wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts and using mosquito repellant.

“The residents must also support fogging or spraying in identified hotspots being conducted by the local government and village authorities and seek early consultation,” the mayor said. “The city government and villages are conducting search and destroy operations to eliminate the breeding places of mosquitoes as well as regular clean-up drives.”

Residents were also urged to go to the nearest hospital or health center if they have leptospirosis symptoms such as high fever, red eyes, abdominal pain, headache, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and yellowed skin or eyes.

Residents are also reminded to avoid wading or swimming in potentially contaminated water, wear protective clothing, stay away from dead or sick animals, and cover skin lesions with waterproof dressing.

“In order to make our community safe from dengue and leptospirosis, let us start with protecting our families by cleaning our surroundings and making sure that preventive measures are in place,” Belmonte said.