Authorities are implementing measures to protect schoolchildren from dengue fever as case numbers continue to rise across the country.

In Occidental Mindoro province, where nearly 900 dengue cases have been recorded this year, the Department of Education (DepEd) has endorsed the use of insecticide-treated nets in schools.

“When a mosquito comes into contact with the nets, it dies due to the insecticide,” explained Dr. Maria Anna Irene San, medical officer of DepEd MIMAROPA.

Health officials have raised fears about potential heat issues if the nets are used as window screens, particularly as temperatures in Mindoro have been soaring.

The Philippine weather service Pagasa recently warned that parts of Occidental Mindoro could experience temperatures reaching 42°C – classified in the “danger” category for heat-related illnesses.

To address these concerns, Dr. San recommended: “Let us remove the curtains if treated nets are used as window screens and make sure electric fans are available in classrooms.”

The strategy comes as the country battles a consistent increase in dengue cases.

Nationwide, infections have risen by 19% compared to last year, with more than 90,000 cases reported in the first half of 2024.

In Occidental Mindoro specifically, authorities have recorded 899 cases as of early March 2025, a dramatic increase from the 111 cases reported in the same period last year.

The province of Oriental Mindoro has been even harder hit, with more than 2,200 cases reported by mid-2024 – already exceeding the total for all of 2023.

Eduardo Ellarma, Education Program Supervisor for DepEd Occidental Mindoro, said officials are “closely monitoring the health and safety of students, particularly in areas with high numbers of dengue cases.”

Besides the treated nets, authorities are conducting information campaigns focusing on environmental cleanliness, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, and using insect repellents.

Health officials have urged people to seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit symptoms of dengue, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito and can be fatal if left untreated.