DOH: 136,161 dengue cases recorded since start of 2024 

The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday, Aug. 13 observed a continued increase in dengue cases nationwide, reaching 136,161 as of Aug. 3.

DOH said the current number of cases is 33 percent higher than the 102,374 cases recorded during the same period last year. 

Despite the increase in cases, dengue-related deaths have decreased to 364 this year, compared to 401 at the same time last year.

DOH attributed the lower death toll to earlier medical consultations and improved case management by hospitals.

“Lower deaths despite higher cases means our campaigns are working. Let us continue to seek early consultation for symptoms that may already be dengue. Let us also keep cleaning our surroundings—search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds: anything with stagnant water,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.

DOH pointed out the importance of its 4S Strategy—Search and Destroy mosquito breeding sites, Self-protection, Seek early consultation, and Support fogging—to effectively address the increasing number of dengue cases.

Several local governments have officially declared dengue outbreaks due to the rising number of cases.

DOH cited that, by law, the declaration of local disease outbreaks must be issued by provincial, city, or municipal authorities, as stipulated in Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11332.

It assured that the agency is working closely with local epidemiology and surveillance units to gather sufficient scientific evidence, which will help them advise local chief executives (governors or mayors) on the most effective response measures.

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes. 

While many people experience no symptoms, common ones include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash. 

Most recover within one to two weeks, but severe cases may require hospitalization and can be fatal.