THE City Government of Tagbilaran has stepped up health monitoring and preventive measures due to a rise in influenza and flu-like illnesses, especially among students.
Dengue cases have also increased, prompting Barangay Cogon to be placed under heightened monitoring.
Mayor Jane Yap said she directed the Tagbilaran City Primary Care Facility, or TCPCF, headed by City Health Officer Dr. Jeia Pondoc, to strengthen surveillance and carry out early interventions.
The goal is to prevent further transmission and protect residents, with a focus on children and families.
To support this, the city is now offering free complete blood count and Dengue NS1 testing for Tagbilaran residents who need medical assessment.
A priority lane has also been set up for patients seeking these services.
TCPCF has extended its health services until 10 P.M. to accommodate parents, workers, and other residents who cannot go during regular office hours.
Mayor Yap urged residents to have themselves or their children checked if a fever lasts for two days or does not improve.
She stressed the importance of seeking medical attention before symptoms become severe.
For flu-like illnesses, the city has coordinated with schools to encourage students with fever, cough, colds, sore throat, body aches, or similar symptoms to stay home and rest until they recover.
Residents with symptoms were also advised to wear masks, wash their hands frequently, and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
Meanwhile, dengue surveillance has been strengthened in barangays where cases have increased.
Barangay Cogon remains under heightened monitoring as part of the city’s intensified response.
The city urged households to carry out the “Search and Destroy” approach by eliminating stagnant water.
Residents were also told to clean gutters and water containers, cover water storage facilities, and keep surroundings free of potential mosquito breeding sites.
Mayor Yap said the city’s response will focus on early identification, immediate action, and accessible health services.
“We should not wait for the situation to become an emergency before we act. Prevention and early action will always be our priority,” Yap said.
The city government called on schools, barangay officials, healthcare workers, and residents to work together to prevent the spread of both respiratory illnesses and dengue.
This includes monitoring symptoms, seeking early consultation, and maintaining clean surroundings.
