On Fri, Oct 28, the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed two new cases of Zika, which now brings the total to 19 confirmed cases of the mosquito-transmitted infection in the Philippines since September.
Yes, 19 cases in two months.
Health Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo said the two cases are a woman in her mid-forties and a young boy. Meanwhile, according DOH spokesman Dr. Eric Tayag, the DOH is still confirming if two two cases “are in the same street (in the province of) Cavite.”
Both cases are not confined in the hospital, according to a report by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
As of press time, DOH reports that there are 12 cases of Zika from Western Visayas, three from the National Capital Region, three from CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon Province), and one from Central Visayas since September 2016.
PNA reports, “All of the cases were classified as local transmission since they have no history of travel to Zika endemic areas prior to the onset of their illness. These cases further support the earlier conclusion that the Zika causing mosquitoes are actually present in the country.”
These are the same mosquitos that transmit Dengue and Chikungunya virus.
In the meantime, perhaps this is the right time to stock up on insect repellant lotions and sprays just to be on the safe side, and follow DOH’s 4S Keys against Zika:
“The 4S means Search & destroy mosquito breeding places, use Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than 2 days, and Say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak.”
If you are experiencing any Zika-related symptoms (fever with red eyes, joint pains, headache and rashes), consult a doctor immediately.
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