Makati to give free anti-dengue kits to 47K kids

Makati Mayor Abby Binay said parents of some 47,212 public elementary students can now pick up free anti-dengue kits in schools.

The city government has began distributing the kits last August 11, along with the free school supplies and uniforms under Project FREE (Free Relevant and Excellent Education).

Each kit contains a 250 ml mosquito repellent lotion and a wrist band with four citronella capsules that last up to three months per piece.

The initiative is part of the local government's campaign to prevent dengue as the Makati City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) recorded a total number of 334 dengue cases from January 1 to August 15.

Binay said the city keeps its focus on enhancing students' learning experience and protection as it continues to conduct clean-up drives, preventive misting operations, and health education seminars in barangays to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.

The city government encouraged its residents to practice the "4S" strategy of searching and destroying mosquito-breeding sites; securing self-protection measures (use of insect repellent sprays/lotions, long sleeve shirts, and long pants); seeking early consultation; and supporting fogging and spraying in hotspot places.

The residents, at the same time, are advised to immediately report persons with dengue symptoms to health authorities.

According to the Department of Health, dengue symptoms include high fever that lasts up to seven days, skin flushing, bleeding of the nose or gums, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.—Sherilyn Untalan/LDF, GMA News