The Department of Health (DOH) announced a significant decrease in dengue cases in the country on Friday, Oct. 11.
In a statement, the DOH reported 269,467 dengue cases as of Oct. 4, reflecting a 20 percent drop from Sept. 1 to 14, with 25,986 cases reported compared to 32,649 from Aug. 18 to 31.
Dengue cases
The DOH noted that new cases have decreased in all regions except the National Capital Region (NCR) over the past four weeks.
However, cases this year show an 82 percent increase compared to the 147,678 cases recorded during the same period last year, the DOH added.
Of the recorded cases, 2,856 (1.06 percent) involved severe dengue.
“A total of 702 deaths have been reported, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.26 percent, lower than the CFR of 0.37 percent recorded during the same period last year,” the DOH stated.
Meanwhile, the DOH noted that “changes in figures may still occur due to late reporting from certain areas.”
The DOH reiterated that, by law, it does not release specific names of local governments to allow for coordinated risk communication, community engagement, and response to localized dengue outbreaks, as stipulated under Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11332.
Remain vigilant
With this recent development, the DOH urged the public to “remain vigilant” in preventing dengue, especially during the rainy season.
“The DOH urges the public to stay alert and continue efforts to protect themselves and their communities,” DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa said.
“We encourage everyone to practice preventive measures and seek medical attention at the first sign of dengue symptoms,” he added.
To protect families and communities, the DOH emphasized the importance of following the 4S strategy: Search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and containers; use Self-protection measures such as insect repellents and wearing long-sleeved clothing; Seek early consultation when experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, body pain, or skin rashes; and Support fogging or spraying in local hotspot areas where dengue cases are rising.