Koronadal: The South Cotabato Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) on Tuesday conducted misting and spraying operations at the Koronadal National Comprehensive High School (KNCHS), the city's largest public high school, to protect its estimated 12,000 students from the dengue virus.

According to Philippines News Agency, IPHO chief, Dr. Conrado Bra±a, stated that his office responded to a request from KNCHS principal Maria Fe Lita Yppraguirre. Alongside the misting and spraying, IPHO personnel also carried out an information campaign on dengue prevention and the elimination of mosquito breeding sites.

Bra±a mentioned that the IPHO staff introduced the 4S strategy: Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, Secure self-protection from bites, Seek early consultation for dengue symptoms, and Support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas. He emphasized that implementing the 4S strategy daily takes only five minutes. The fifth "S" - Support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas - is considered a last resort during outbreaks. This approach is critical in preventing the spread of dengue during the rainy season when the mosquito population typically rises.

According to the latest IPHO data, Koronadal has reported 92 dengue cases since January.