Bukidnon villages battle sudden surge in scabies and chickenpox cases

VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — Local health officials are stepping up disease control efforts following a sudden increase in scabies and chickenpox cases in four villages across this municipality. The outbreak has prompted immediate coordinated action between barangay leaders and the City Health Office, which has been tracking the rising infection numbers through ongoing surveillance operations.

Barangay Captain Rudy Guadalupe of Colonia expressed serious concern over the situation, citing data from the City Health Office showing the number of affected residents has climbed substantially. The dual outbreak of the contagious skin and respiratory conditions has triggered heightened monitoring and preventive measures at the village level.

Authorities have not released specific figures for total cases across the affected communities, but the trajectory has warranted swift intervention. Health officials are continuing citywide surveillance to determine whether cases remain contained to the four villages or are spreading to other areas.

The coordinated response includes community awareness initiatives and medical assistance at the barangay level. Local government units have been directed to implement hygiene protocols and monitor household contacts of confirmed patients to prevent further transmission of both diseases.