With classes still suspended due to flooding, schools in Mangaldan, Pangasinan are now undergoing large-scale fogging and misting operations to prevent dengue outbreaks ahead of the return to face-to-face classes.

The local government of Mangaldan initiated the operation after several classrooms, including four in Mangaldan Central School.

“Mahalaga ang fogging before pasukan para maiwasan ang mga sakit kasi andaming drainage, stagnant ang mga kanal,” Dr. Liza Lojo, principal of Mangaldan Central School, said.

The Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with Rural Health Units (RHU) and Municipal Health Offices (MHO), is conducting misting in areas without dengue cases. However, in areas where there are already clusters of suspected cases, fogging operations are advised.

“Aside from misting, puwede rin po ‘yung installation ng insecticide treated screen natin. So ‘yung mga screen, imbes na normal screen ang ilalagay doon sa mga bintana ng mga eskwelahan. Ang DOH ay nagbibigay ng mga screen na mayroong insecticide para kapag doon dumapo ang lamok ay doon na sila mamatay,” Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson of CHD Region 1, said.

Parents have welcomed the move.

“Malaking bagay para sa safety ng mga bata,” Jovito Baylon, a parent, said.

Health officials remind the public to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of dengue appear, such as high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rashes.