PNA file photo MALASIQUI, Pangasinan - The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has recorded 1,822 dengue cases from January 1 to August 29 this year, 53 percent lower than the 3,919 recorded in the same period last year. Based on the data provided to the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday, the highest number of cases this year was recorded in July with 690. The usual age group affected by the virus is between 10 to 14 years old. Three deaths have been recorded due to dengue this year. The latest casualty was a 41-year-old male from San Quintin town. PHO chief Dr. Anna Ma. Teresa de Guzman, in a phone interview, attributed the decrease to the improved awareness of the danger and prevention of dengue conducted by the PHO. "We are intensifying health promotion in the communities and rural health units, particularly in areas under monitoring," she said. She added special lanes for dengue cases are in place in the provincial government-run hospitals. The towns and cities under PHO's monitoring are San Carlos City with 204 cases, Malasiqui town with 129, Urdaneta City with 117, Sta. Barbara with 88, Calasiao with 83, Lingayen with 79, Alaminos City with 71, Binmaley with 64, Mapandan with 64, and Villasis with 53 cases. The Department of Health Center for Health Development in the Ilocos Region is continuously urging the public to remain vigilant against the disease by practicing the 4S, especially during the rainy season. The 4S includes searching and destroying mosquito breeding places, self-protection, seeking early consultation, and supporting fogging if there is clustering. (PNA) }