Philippines health officials have reported twelve locally acquired Zika virus infections this year, with the bulk of the cases reported in Iloilo City to date. Joining the Department of Health in the battle against the spread of the mosquito borne virus is Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle.

Image/CDC
Image/CDC

According to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila, Cardinal Tagle released a Pastoral Guidance that will strengthen the Department of Health’s campaign to fight against the spread of Zika Virus.

Circular No. 2016-51 was released to all parishes, institutions, hospitals, communities, and  schools in the Archdiocese of Manila.

The Pastoral Guidance aims to help inform the public of the “4S” of DOH against Zika Virus namely:  Search and destroy mosquito-breeding places;  use Self protection measures;  Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than two days; and Say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak.

Cardinal Tagle also called on the people to be attentive to the symptoms of Zika virus as well as to  observe protective procedures  towards the spread of the said virus.

In addition to Zika virus, the Philippines has reported large numbers of dengue fever and chikungunya cases this year, both transmitted to people through the bite of the same mosquito, Aedes aegypti.

Tagle also noted that special attention must be given to the young children, the sick or elderly, and pregnant women.

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