Mayor Joy Belmonte with Quezon City Health Department OIC Dra Ramona Abarquez and Barangay and Community Relations Department head Ricky Corpuz during a meeting with all 142 baranggay leaders on the dengue outbreak.
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte is mobilizing residents to take proactive steps in protecting their health amid the dengue outbreak in the city.
She emphasized the crucial role of community cooperation in combating the dengue outbreak in the city, which saw reported cases rise by a staggering 200% since January.
鈥淥ur fight against this deadly disease requires everyone鈥檚 involvement. I urge every QCitizen to join hands with us in this battle against dengue. Together, we can make a significant impact on our community鈥檚 health by acting now,鈥� Belmonte said.
To address the public health crisis, the city government has implemented extensive measures, including making healthcare services readily available at all 66 QC Health Centers. These will operate on weekends to accommodate potential dengue patients.
Additionally, fever express lanes have been established in health facilities to ensure prompt attention for individuals showing symptoms of dengue.
Spraying operations conducted in several QC Schools
Barangay Spraying Teams are conducting fogging and spraying operations in areas where dengue cases have clustered.
The administration is also providing free dengue test kits to facilitate early diagnosis and intervention.
However, Belmonte said health authorities cannot address the dengue outbreak alone.
鈥淲e must all contribute to keeping our environment clean and safe. I call upon parents, barangay leaders, and every member of our community to participate in clean-up drives. Remove items that can collect water and become breeding sites for mosquitoes, such as old containers and tires. Your participation can literally save lives,鈥� she said.
Bayanihan cleaning against dengue breeding grounds in Barangays Pasong Tamo and Capri
To boost awareness about dengue prevention, the local government is rolling out educational campaigns across all 142 聽barangays. The initiatives include dengue awareness assemblies, pre-clinic lectures, and partnerships with schools to underscore the importance of cleanliness and preventive health measures.
鈥淚t鈥檚 essential for children to learn how to protect themselves from dengue as part of their education,鈥� Belmonte said.
鈥淚 encourage barangay officials to engage with their communities, and I urge parents to be vigilant about their children鈥檚 symptoms and health. If you notice any signs of dengue, seek medical help immediately,鈥� she added.
Mayor Joy Belmonte with the city health officials in a press conference about the dengue outbreak
As of mid-February, 1,769 dengue cases have been recorded, significantly affecting school-aged children with over half of those infected belonging to vulnerable age groups. The outbreak has already claimed the lives of 10 residents, including eight minors.
鈥淨Citizens, your active involvement is essential. Support our clean-up drives, stay informed about dengue prevention, and cooperate with local health officials. Together, we can safeguard our families and community from this serious threat. Let鈥檚 stand united and ensure a healthier Quezon City for everyone,鈥� she said.