Bontoc, Mountain Province – The Municipal Health Office (MHO) headed by Municipal Health Officer Dr. Diga Kay Gomez reminded the public on prevention of Dengue and Hand, Foot & Mouth Diseases (HFMD), and Heat related illnesses, during the 2nd Quarter Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) meeting today, April 23, 2025, at Barangay Balili.

Nurse I Dixi Jane Lingbanan-Kiniway disclosed that the municipality has recorded a total of 12 dengue cases as of April 22, 2025, with one case each from Barangays Alab Oriente, Balili, Dalican, Guina-ang, and Mainit. Meanwhile, two cases were recorded in Barangays Bontoc Ili and Talubin, and three in Caluttit.

With this, the MHO is emphasizing the importance of the 5S Strategies Against Dengue:

S-earch and destroy mosquito breeding sites

S-ecure self-protection measures like wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and daily use of mosquito repellant

S-eek early consultation

S-upport fogging/spraying

S-ustain Hydration

Additionally, Kiniway reported an increase in HFMD cases, with a total of 11 cases as of April 2025. Barangay Caluttit has recorded four cases, Barangay Poblacion two, Barangay Samoki three, and one case each in Barangays Bontoc Ili and Alab Proper.

Further, she emphasized the importance of being cautious of heat-related illnesses which include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps.

The MHO advised the public to protect themselves against heat-related illnesses by staying hydrated, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Meanwhile, MHO personnel offered blood pressure monitoring to the council members during the meeting.