Candelaria school takes proactive stance against dengue with insecticide-treated screens

By Rowena Cruz Dr. Kim Tan, Provincial Health Officer, during the distribution of insecticide-treated screens at Pahinga Norte Elementary Sc...

By Rowena Cruz

Dr. Kim Tan, Provincial Health Officer, during the distribution of insecticide-treated screens at Pahinga Norte Elementary School at Candelaria, Quezon, on August 16, 2024. (Photo from Celine Tutor)

CANDELARIA, Quezon - Amid a concerning rise in dengue cases, Pahinga Norte Elementary School in Candelaria, Quezon on August 16, 2024, has become the latest recipient of long-lasting insecticide-treated screens, courtesy of the Quezon Provincial Health Office. These screens are expected to act as a crucial barrier against mosquito bites, the primary transmission method of the dengue virus, thereby safeguarding the health of students.

Dr. Kris Conrad Mangunay, Assistant Provincial Health Officer, shed light on the urgency of the situation, stating, "The province has witnessed a worrying surge in dengue cases, with 2,931 cases and 12 deaths reported so far. This alarming trend prompted us to initiate the 'Sa Quezon, Mosquitoes Walang Lulusutan Project', under which we're installing Olyset Net window screens, a Japanese technology distributed by G CHEM TRADING CORP."



Fely De Ramos, PTA President, expressed her appreciation, saying, "We are deeply grateful to the Quezon PHO and Governor Helen Tan for prioritizing the well-being of our students."

Dr. Kim Tan, the governor's eldest son and a guest at the event, reinforced the significance of this initiative, noting, "Healthcare is of utmost importance, and protecting our children from preventable diseases like dengue is a crucial part of that."

The Olyset Net screens are designed to function as insecticides, providing safe and effective protection against mosquitoes for up to five years. The installation at Pahinga Norte Elementary School was made possible through a P350,000 allocation from the Quezon Provincial Health Office's General Fund.

Candelaria currently holds the unenviable position of having the second-highest number of dengue cases in the province, with 341 cases and two deaths recorded. Barangay Pahinga Norte, where the school is located, is particularly affected, with a majority of cases involving students aged 1-10.

Governor Dr. Helen Tan continues to urge the public to actively participate in government programs aimed at combating dengue. In addition to the installation of screens, the Quezon PHO is implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes intensified information campaigns, community clean-up drives, and increased surveillance efforts. The concerted effort aims to curb the spread of dengue and protect the health of residents across the province.