By LTC LOLITA C VARGAS (GSC) NC
Equipped with the latest armaments and technologies such as guns and tanks, the PSG is known for its security features against attack from enemies of the state. Its personnel who are tasked to protect the president and the first family, were trained in the highest degree to defend and protect. However, all of these protective measurements and trainings are useless against an unseen enemy at the gates: The Dengue Mosquito.
For the past month, the PSGSH personnel, headed by COL RONALDO C CRUZ (GSC) MC, Commanding Officer and the author, prevented what could have been an epidemic in the camp. Anticipation and recognizing the danger of what this disease can bring to PSG were key elements to this endeavor. The ocular inspection at Madrigal compound and in the different facilities of PSG, in coordination with the Mendoza Health Center Pandacan, the District Office Sanitation Department San Miguel, barangay officials and community leaders was conducted. The City Health of Manila under the Office of the Mayor of Manila assisted in the spraying of the anti mosquito chemicals in the entire Madrigal compound.
Through the conduct of Dengue Prevention Seminar and flyers, the PSGSH has effectively increased awareness level among the PSG constituents. This includes recognizing the early symptoms of the illness like fever and rashes, and when to seek immediate medical attention. These have dramatically prevented late detection and progression of Dengue to its critical and most of the time fatal stage where there is a high mortality rate, especially in children.
As part of prevention, the PSGSH formed a team who initiated a clean-up drive in Madrigal compound, where dengue cases were the highest. Removing stagnant water where the deadly mosquitoes can breed is considered as one of the most effective anti-dengue methods. It is regarded as better than the most potent insecticides and defogging techniques where the mosquitoes are only driven out of the area and not totally eradicated. The Primary Health Care (PHC) team of PSGSH will continuously monitor the areas to ensure the health of the PSG community.
