DOH Revives Express Lanes in Gov’t Hospitals for Dengue Cases

The Department of Health (DOH) ordered on Tuesday the revival of dengue express lanes in government-run hospitals.

DOH spokesman Dr. Eric Tayag said they have already issued the directive in areas where the incidence of the mosquito-borne disease is on the rise.

Health Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial wants the hospitals to revive the express lanes to prevent overcrowding, Tayag said, adding that private hospitals are encouraged to follow suit.

The DOH Epidemiology Bureau has recorded 66,299 dengue cases from Jan. 1 to July 16 this year.

“The figure is 22.9 percent higher compared to the same period last year, which is 53,938,” he said.

Tayag, meanwhile, called on the public to follow the government’s “4S” program against dengue fever because vaccines are not enough protection against the disease.

“Dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases may be prevented if we put our collective efforts and start action within our homes through the 4S campaign,” he said.

“4S” stands for Search and destroy mosquito breeding places; use Self-protection measures; Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than two days; and Say NO to indiscriminate fogging.

Tayag reminded the public to clean their surroundings and destroy the breeding places of mosquitoes, and protect themselves by wearing pants and long sleeves and by applying mosquito repellant lotions.

He also called on patients to seek medical help if their fever persists beyond two days, and discouraged indiscriminate fogging because it only drives away mosquitoes to other areas. (PNA) SCS/CVL/LSJ