As dengue cases continue to rise nationwide, the Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday, Sept. 12, urged the public to take action by eliminating mosquitoes to prevent the spread of the disease during the rainy season.
“We are witnessing a continued and seasonal rise in dengue cases,” DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa said in a statement. “It is crucial that we take immediate and concerted action to address this situation brought about by the rainy season,” he added.
The DOH noted that “currently, cases are on an uptrend,” showing a 25 percent increase from Aug. 4 to Aug. 17, with 36,335 cases reported compared to 29,021 from July 21 to Aug. 3.
Except for Mimaropa, Bicol, Zamboanga Peninsula, and BARMM, all regions experienced an increase in cases from Aug. 4 to Aug. 17.
The DOH said it “does not release specific names of local governments” to allow for coordinated risk communication, community engagement, and response to localized dengue outbreaks, as provided for under Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11332.
Higher cases, lower deaths
The DOH noted that from the start of the year to Sept. 6, a total of 208,965 dengue cases have already been reported.
This is 68 percent higher than the previous year’s tally of 124,157 for the same period.
The DOH also noted that a total of 546 deaths have been observed, with a lower Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 0.26 percent compared to the CFR of 0.39 percent in 2023. This, DOH said, may be due to better health-seeking behaviors or case management.
“A smaller proportion of case deaths may be attributed to better health-seeking behavior and improved management at hospitals,” Herbosa said.
Intensify efforts against dengue
Amid the surge in dengue cases, the DOH said it continues to “monitor and assess the situation to implement necessary measures and interventions.”
The DOH also urged the public to intensify measures to kill mosquitoes, as it observes a continued increase in dengue cases.
Moreover, the DOH reminded the public of the importance of the 4S strategy: Search and Destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and their containers; use Self-protection measures such as insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants; Seek early consultation with a doctor or health worker for any symptoms; and Support fogging or spraying in local hotspot or outbreak areas where an increase in cases is registered.
“Let us work together to protect our families, friends, and communities from the dangers of dengue,” Herbosa said.