Authorities in Barangay Addition Hills, a densely populated area in central Manila, have launched an unusual initiative offering residents a cash reward of one peso (less than two US cents) for every five mosquitoes they capture. This measure comes as dengue cases have sharply risen, following the tragic deaths of two students from the disease in the community.
Village chief Carlito Cernal articulated that the bounty program seeks to enhance community health efforts amidst the alarming increase in mosquito-borne illnesses. A total of 21 participants have already collected 700 mosquitoes and larvae since the initiative commenced, which will run for at least a month. Notably, this bounty applies to both dead and live mosquitoes, with plans to exterminate live specimens using ultraviolet light.
While this program has been met with mixed responses online, where some mock the idea of "mosquito farming," Cernal insisted on its necessity: "This is one of the biggest and most dense areas. We have to do something to help the local government." Notably, local health authorities recorded 44 dengue cases in the area amid the outbreak.
Following the rise in dengue, which is endemic in tropical regions, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) has reported a significant 40% increase in dengue cases compared to the previous year, attributing this to seasonal rains. The DOH encourages citizens to maintain cleanliness, eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites, and take preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent.
Amidst this dengue crisis, the rainy season is also contributing to rising cases of influenza-like illnesses and leptospirosis, a serious rat-borne infection. Authorities continue to stress the importance of community involvement in ongoing health efforts to combat these diseases effectively.
Village chief Carlito Cernal articulated that the bounty program seeks to enhance community health efforts amidst the alarming increase in mosquito-borne illnesses. A total of 21 participants have already collected 700 mosquitoes and larvae since the initiative commenced, which will run for at least a month. Notably, this bounty applies to both dead and live mosquitoes, with plans to exterminate live specimens using ultraviolet light.
While this program has been met with mixed responses online, where some mock the idea of "mosquito farming," Cernal insisted on its necessity: "This is one of the biggest and most dense areas. We have to do something to help the local government." Notably, local health authorities recorded 44 dengue cases in the area amid the outbreak.
Following the rise in dengue, which is endemic in tropical regions, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) has reported a significant 40% increase in dengue cases compared to the previous year, attributing this to seasonal rains. The DOH encourages citizens to maintain cleanliness, eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites, and take preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent.
Amidst this dengue crisis, the rainy season is also contributing to rising cases of influenza-like illnesses and leptospirosis, a serious rat-borne infection. Authorities continue to stress the importance of community involvement in ongoing health efforts to combat these diseases effectively.
