High fever, severe headache, nausea, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, and bleeding – these are just some manifestations of dengue fever which is a high-profile and ongoing health concern in the Philippines.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne disease that occurs in tropical and sub-tropical areas. It is transmitted by an Aedes mosquito that is infected with the dengue virus. The vector-borne disease can be spread through a mosquito bite but not from direct bodily contact from a person with dengue fever.

Aside from dengue, other mosquito-borne diseases include Chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, and filariasis.

Despite the release of dengue prevention tips, existing mosquito control, and campaign awareness programs, the Department of Health (DOH) still reported about 33,760 dengue cases from January 1 to May 6 this year. This is 31.9% lower compared to the same period last year with 49,565 reported dengue cases nationwide.

The DOH considers dengue an all-year round disease, although in general the number of cases rises during the rainy season due to the presence of breeding places for the Aedes aegypti type of mosquito.

At present, organizations from the government and private sectors are working to control dengue fever outbreaks in the country. The DOH initiates dengue prevention and control programs by distributing insecticide-treated screens to elementary schools and conducting the 4S campaign awareness program. It also provides venues to collaborate with different government agencies, LGUs, and private sectors to strengthen healthcare delivery in the country.

Pest control and hygiene service market leader Rentokil Initial Philippines Inc. (RIPH) recently conducted community services at barangays in Quezon City and a school in Ortigas City through a collaboration with private organizations and barangay officials. This is to help and educate the constituents in the community as part of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) program of the organization.

How to protect yourself from dengue

In preparation for Dengue Awareness Month, Rentokil Initial is determined to combat this endemic disease through its Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) program. They launched a holistic and effective approach in fighting mosquitoes at every stage of their life cycle.

The IMM program encourages the public to practice steps that can help fight against Aedes mosquitoes. It is a comprehensive mosquito control strategy designed to eradicate mosquito breeding grounds, reduce mosquito populations, and to create healthier and safer environment for the communities.

As part of continuous efforts to protect Filipinos, Rentokil Initial sets out to explore comprehensive approach through campaign awareness programs in every household and communities. It continues to conduct rigid research and development to help improve its services and provide effective solutions that are specifically designed for different needs and preferences.

Rentokil Initial is committed to protect people from the dangers of pest-borne diseases while enhancing their lives with integrated solutions that safeguard their health and well-being.

For more information about Integrated Mosquito Management, contact us at (02) 333 – 5888 or visit us at www.rentokil.com.ph.