Statement of Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on DOH's declaration of a national dengue alert

The Department of Health (DOH)'s declaration of a national dengue alert is a serious health concern and I support all efforts by the DOH in preventing a greater outbreak across the country.

I call on the public to remain calm even as we all exercise awareness and readiness. I urge everyone to monitor announcements by the DOH and to listen to doctors and other medical professionals in relation to dengue prevention and treatment. We must strive to keep our communities dengue-free and provide.immediate medical assistance to those infected.

I also call on all relevant agencies, local government units, and non-government organizations to work closely with the DOH towards the implementation of effective anti-dengue programs at the grassroots level.

I also urge the public and our local government units to remember and implement the DOH's 4s strategy against dengue: Search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds, Secure self-protection, Seek early consultation, and Support fogging only in hotspot areas.

While the resurgence of dengue cases in our country is troubling, it is a problem that the Filipino people can surely solve and overcome.