The Provincial Health Office has issued a timely reminder for local government units, schools, and institutions to strengthen their commitment to combating the mosquito-borne disease called Dengue.
Dengue remains a pressing public health concern, particularly in tropical regions like the Philippines, where stagnant water and humid conditions create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Although there has been a nine percent decrease in dengue cases in Negros Oriental this year compared to the previous year, history has shown that dengue follows a three-year epidemic cycle, with 2025 expected to see a spike in cases, necessitating the taking of proactive measures to prevent a health crisis.
One of the most effective strategies in this fight versus dengue is the Department of Health’s “4 o’clock Habit”—a daily practice encouraging communities to search for and destroy mosquito breeding sites at 4 p.m.
This simple yet powerful initiative is designed to disrupt the mosquito life cycle, particularly during the hour when they are most active.
All LGUs and schools are encouraged to adopt this habit religiously, emphasizing that collective effort is key to making it successful.
The use of chemicals may also work, but the responsibility ultimately lies with the people in their homes and communities. Every household must take the initiative to eliminate stagnant water where mosquitoes lay their eggs—this includes cleaning gutters, disposing of unused tires, covering water containers, and ensuring that surroundings remain dry and uncluttered.
The battle to control dengue is far from over. By institutionalizing the 4 o’clock habit, promoting sustained community involvement, and reinforcing public education, we can minimize the risks of another dengue outbreak.
