MANILA, Philippines 鈥� The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday said 124 dengue cases have been reported in the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and the Cordillera Administrative Region and are currently being monitored.
According to the DepEd in a statement, the dengue outbreak affected students and teachers across Luzon and is closely being monitored by the department.
READ: DOH sees 40% rise in dengue cases as of Feb. 1
Education Sec. Sonny Angara reminded schools to implement the Department of Health鈥檚 5S Strategy to curb the spread of dengue:
- Search and destroy: find and get rid of mosquito breeding sites
- Self-protection: take steps to protect yourself from mosquitoes
- Seek early consultation: get medical advice if you have symptoms of dengue
- Support fogging/spraying: support fogging or spraying in areas with high numbers of cases
- Sustain hydration: drink enough water
He also urged schools to work closely with local government units and health agencies to monitor cases and enforce preventive measures.
Furthermore, schools and regional offices are expected to coordinate with health officials to ensure prompt responses to dengue cases among students and school personnel.
Meanwhile, the department also raised heightened concerns over student safety as temperatures continue to rise nationwide.
鈥淲e are deeply concerned about our learners鈥� and teachers鈥� safety. We are closely coordinating with our field offices to assess the situation in schools and determine the best course of action given the extreme heat,鈥� Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.
DepEd has implemented several interventions to address the extreme heat, such as adjusting class schedules to cooler hours, allowing asynchronous learning during peak heat hours, improving classroom ventilation, and ensuring that hydration stations are available.
Despite these efforts, DepEd鈥檚 current policy does not automatically suspend classes due to high temperatures. The decision is left to local government officials or school heads. 鈥擲heba Barr, 黑料社 trainee