KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Strengthening community awareness and prevention, the Norala District Hospital (NDH) conducted an orientation on dengue prevention to equip residents with practical knowledge in keeping their families and communities healthy, especially during the rainy season.
The activity focused on recognizing the signs and symptoms of dengue, practicing preventive measures, seeking early medical consultation, and understanding the 4S Strategy Against Dengue, the Search and Destroy, Self-Protection, Seek Early Consultation, and Support Fogging or Spraying when necessary.
For NDH Chief of Hospital Dr. Mila G. Quinton, protecting communities begins with everyone doing their part.
“Through community cooperation, early consultation, and sustained prevention efforts, we can protect our families and reduce the number of cases in our communities,” Quinton said.
The initiative comes as South Cotabato continues to strengthen its dengue prevention efforts.
Based on the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, the province recorded 3,118 dengue cases from January 4 to July 18, 2026, eight percent higher than the same period last year.
While the figures underscore the importance of continued vigilance, health authorities are also emphasizing that early awareness and community action remain key to prevention.
In Norala, NDH has been consistently supporting local dengue response efforts.
An earlier hospital report recorded 36 dengue-positive patients, prompting strengthened monitoring, community coordination, and preventive measures in identified areas.
Through the orientation, NDH continues to empower residents to become active partners in disease prevention.
From keeping surroundings clean and free from stagnant water to practicing self-protection and seeking medical advice when needed.
More than responding to dengue cases, the hospital is strengthening a culture of prevention, preparedness, and community cooperation.
Because when people are informed, prepared, and united, communities become healthier and more resilient.
