Philippines: Diseases linked to climate change - Senator Legarda

“Now more than ever, it is of utmost importance that we put more effort into the prevention and control of climate-related diseases, and enhance the DoH’s [Department of Health] capacity for early warning for any outbreak,” said Senator Loren Legarda chair of the Senate committee on climate change that met yesterday.

“I urge the DoH to strengthen their initiatives on disease and health surveillance. Furthermore, the DoH must enhance its awareness campaigns on climate-sensitive diseases, not limited to dengue but including pulmonary infections, malaria, cholera, heatstroke, and skin infections,” she stressed.