As we approach the rainy season, it’s crucial to raise awareness and take preventive measures against dengue fever, especially in the Philippines where this mosquito-borne disease is prevalent. Dengue can have serious health implications, particularly for our young ones. As mothers and caregivers, you play a crucial role in safeguarding your family’s health. Here’s how you can take action, guided by the Philippines’ Department of Health’s (DOH) comprehensive campaign against dengue, which emphasizes the 5S strategy.
Understanding Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which is most active during the day. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding (such as nose or gum bleeding).
The 5S Strategy: Your Shield Against Dengue
The DOH has introduced the %s Strategy to combat dengue. By integrating these five key steps into your routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of dengue in your home and community.
Search and Destroy. Regulary inspect your surroundings for ptential mosquito breeding sites. Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, so it’s essential to:
- Empty and clean water containers such as vases, plant saucers, and pet dishes at least once a week.
- Cover water storage containers tightly.
- Dispose of items that can collect water, such as old tires and unused containers.
- Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water from pooling.
Self Protection Matters. Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites, especially during peak biting times (early morning and late afternoon):
- Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin.
- Dress in long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
- Use mosquito nets, particularly for babies and young children.
Seek Early Consultation. If you or your child develop symptoms of dengue, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and proer medical care are crucial in managing the disease and preventing complications.
Support Fogging/Spraying. During outbreaks, the DOH may conduct fogging or spraying in your area to reduce the mosquito population. Cooperate with local health and authorities and allow them to carry out these activities to protect your community.
Sustain Hydration. Encourage your family to stay hydrated, particularly if anyone is showing signs of dengue. Fluids are vital in managing the fever and preventing dehydration.
Tips for Mothers and Child Caregivers
- Educate Your Family: Teach your children about the importance of the 5S strategy. Make it a fun and engaging activity by turning it into a game or a weekly family chore.
- Create a Clean and Safe Environment: Regularly clean your home and surroundings. Get your children involved in simple tasks like checking and emptying water containers.
- Be Vigilant: Monitor your children for any signs of dengue, especially during dengue season. Early symptoms might be mistaken for other illnesses, so it’s better to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
- Stay Updated: Follow updates from the DOH and local health units regarding dengue cases in your area and participate in community clean-up drives and health campaigns.
Medicash Dengue Insurance Plan: A Safety Net for your Family
While preventive measures are essential, it’s equally important to be prepared for unexpected medical expenses. The Medicash Dengue Insurance Plan provides a lump-sum of P10,000 medical cash assistance if the insured is diagnosed with Dengue, even if hospital confinement is not required.
- Medical Cash Assistance: Receive ₱10,000 in medical cash assistance upon diagnosis of dengue (dengue fever, dengue shock syndrome, or dengue hemorrhagic fever), even if not confined in a hospital. This benefit is paid on top of PhilHealth and/or HMO coverage, if any.
- Affordability: Dengue protection doesn’t have to be expensive! The Medicash Dengue Plan costs only ₱350, ensuring health protection for you or your loved ones without straining your finances. It is available for you, your family members, friends, and household staff, with ages 14 days old up to 70 years old.
- One Year Coverage: Dengue can strike anytime, anywhere. The MediCash Dengue Plan is valid for one year, giving you peace of mind and financial protection around the clock.
Having insurance means you won’t have to worry about the financial burden if dengue strikes. You can focus on your family’s recovery, knowing that your medical expenses are covered.
Secure Your Family’s Health Today!
This rainy season, we must stay safe and be proactive in preventing dengue. Protecting your family from dengue involves more than just preventive measures. InsuranceKo ensures that you are financially prepared for any medical emergencies with our affordable insurance plans.
The MediCash Dengue Insurance Plan is underwritten by Pioneer Life, Inc. and distributed by InsuranceKo. It is available for you, your family members, friends, and household staff, with ages 14 days old up to 70 years old. You may purchase it here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pioneer Medicash Dengue Insurance?
It is a health insurance that provides a lump-sum of P10,000 medical cash assistance in the event that the insured is diagnosed with Dengue, even if the diagnosis does not require hospital confinement. This insurance plan is underwritten by Pioneer Life, Inc. and distributed by EnsureMePh Insurance Broker, Inc. (InsuranceKo).
How do I get the P10,000 benefit?
Once you’re insured, over the 15-day waiting period, and start feeling the symptoms and showing signs of Dengue, you should:
- Consult a Doctor.
- Ask the Doctor to complete the Claims Medical Report (CMR), which is like a Medical Certificate and comes with your MediCash Coverage Summary.
- Take a photo of the CMR and the diagnostic results.
- Send photo via email to retail@pioneer.com.ph or viber to 0917 531 7213.
Can someone who has Dengue buy MediCash and claim the P10,000?
No. MediCash has a 15-day waiting period which means that no signs nor symptoms of Dengue should have been observed and that the first doctor’s consultation should not have occurred during the waiting period.
Who would benefit from MediCash?
You, your family members, friends, and household staff, with ages 14 days old up to 70 years old.
I already have an HMO and/or Philhealth, is there still value in getting MediCash?
Yes, there is. You get the full P10,000 on top of your HMO and Philhealth benefits to take care of all the other expenses. Receipts or hospital bills are not required.
