By Liza Agoot

DENGUE SYMPTOMS. A Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region information material showing the signs and symptoms of dengue fever. The city government has flagged three barangays in Baguio City for having the most number of dengue cases and encouraged local officials and residents to clean their surroundings. (Image courtesy of DOH-CAR)

BAGUIO CITY – The City Health Services Office (CHSO) has raised a “red flag” health alert status on three barangays here for the clustering of dengue cases, and urged both the officials and residents to clean up and prevent further spread of the viral disease.

The CHSO identified Irisan, Bakakeng Central and Pinsao Proper as the villages with the highest number of dengue cases.

As of March 13, the city government recorded 236 cases with three deaths. A total of 76 were treated at hospitals.

Fogging was conducted at Pinsao Proper Barangay as an offshoot of an entomology survey, which confirmed that the barangay is at high risk for dengue due to a confirmed large population of Aedes aegypti, or the dengue carrying mosquito.

Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, city health officer, on Friday said “an analysis of the age and sex distribution of dengue cases from Jan. 1 to March 8, 2025 shows that the highest incidence of dengue cases was observed among 15 to 24 years old with a fairly balanced distribution between males and females. Children 5 to 14 years old show moderate incidence and older adults (65 and above) show a lower number of cases.”

She said the CHSO closely monitors barangays with the most cases and continuously reminds residents and barangay officials to be vigilant against anti-vector-borne diseases.

Brillantes also reminded residents of the “Consolidated Anti-vector Borne Disease Ordinance” where residents can be fined or penalized with three days of public service for violations that contribute to an increase in mosquito-borne diseases.

The violations include: storing water in containers that are not tightly/properly covered; not regularly changing water in vases with ornamental plants; keeping, storing, or stowing of discarded tires; keeping or having artificial or man-made containers including natural containers that serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes; and conducting chemical control methods without clearance from the Department of Health or City Health Services Office.

Mayor Benjamin Magalong has repeatedly called on city residents to help address dengue by cleaning their surroundings and getting rid of possible breeding sites. (PNA)