Dengue fever has been on a rise in Metro Manila, ever since the outbreak a few weeks back. Addition of more people to the list of affected proves that the nation has been hit badly by the fever.

The Department of Health has recognized the worst hit areas where clustering of dengue cases have been reported.

The areas include Libis, Talisay, Lapu-Lapu-Maypajo, Julian Felipe-Sangandaan and Phases 4, 7, 8, and 9 in Bagong, Silang in Caloocan, Acacia, Catmon, Longos, Potrero and Tonsuya in Malabon, Oroquieta-Sta Cruz, Quiricada-Sta Cruz, New Antipolo, Hermosa-Tondo and F. Varona-Tondo in Manila.

Other areas are Bayanan, Putatan in Muntinlupa, Dagat-Dagatan, Tangos and Tanza in Navotas, Moonwalk and Sucat in Parañaque, Maybunga in Pasig, Tatalon, Tandang Sora, San Bartolome, Payatas, Masambong, Loyola Heights, Holy Spirit, Gulod-Novaliches, Cubao, Commonwealth, Manresa, Batasan Hills and Bagbag in Quezon City, Maharlika Village in Taguig and Ugong, Marulas, Malinta, Karuhatan, Lawang Bato, Gen. T. De Leon and Bigna in Valenzuela.

The health authorities have warned the people not to take aspirin to fight against the fever. They hold that dengue makes the blood thinner and so does aspirin. Consumption of the drug may worsen the condition as double the blood will be lost.

Dengue fever is an acute febrile disease, found in the tropics, with a geographical spread similar to malaria. Dengue is transmitted to humans by the mosquito Aedes aegypti.

Dr. Eric Tayag, officer-in-charge of the DOH National Epidemiology Center, said that people who have been suffering from continuous fever should visit the doctor at once in order to prevent any extremities.

Tayag added that the health department has already ordered hospitals to set up express lanes for patients suspected to have dengue. Express lanes will offer quicker management and treatment.

Health authorities have requested the people not to delay a trip to the doctor if any early symptoms are noticed.

This infectious disease is manifested by a sudden onset of fever, with severe headache, joint and muscular pains and rashes. There may also be gastritis with some combination of associated abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

The Department of Health has switched to a new approach for combating dengue fever. According to Health Secretary Dr. Francisco Duque, ‘search and destroy’ method is the most effective and least expensive method.

Some 13,468 cases have been recorded from Jan. 1 to Aug. 29 this year, including 167 fatalities.