The Department of Health (DOH) continues to monitor Dengue as part of the W.I.L.D (Water-borne disease, Influenza-like illness, Leptospirosis, and Dengue) diseases common during the rainy season.
Dengue cases are rising as expected due to the rainfall, which allows more water to pool and be stagnant. Left unchecked, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes responsible for spreading Dengue will breed in these stagnant pools of water.
“We know what works, and that is to kill mosquitoes.”
“With rain comes the rise of Dengue. We know what works, and that is to kill mosquitoes,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said.
The latest reports as of June 29, 2024 show a 30% increase in the number of cases. From 6,323 cases reported last May 19 to June 1 (start of the rainy season), 8,246 cases were reported nationwide last June 2 to June 15. The DOH is cautious in interpreting case counts especially as regards the most recent tally (8,213 cases from June 16 to 29) as there may be incoming late reports.
A total of 90,119 dengue cases have been reported from the start of 2024 until June 29, with 233 deaths in the same time period. The number of cases this year is 19% higher than the previous year’s tally of 75,968 over the same time period.
Based on the epidemic curve, the DOH notes that cases on a weekly basis in 2024 went above what was observed in 2023 from January 1 to May 11. From May 12 to June 29, the weekly case numbers have returned to either below or just slightly above what was recorded in 2023. This may be attributed to ongoing intensified efforts of local governments to kill mosquitoes by searching and destroying their breeding water.
Seven regions have shown an increase in cases over the past six weeks before June 29: MIMAROPA, Cagayan Valley, Western Visayas, Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and the National Capital Region.
The DOH does not release specific names of local governments to allow for their coordinated risk communication, community engagement, and response on localized Dengue outbreaks, as provided for under Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11332.
The DOH continues to reiterate the importance of sustained measures and interventions.
“Protect loved ones too through clothing and mosquito repellants. Do not self-medicate; ask your doctor or nearby clinic if you have Dengue,” Herbosa stressed.
“The ‘4S’ strategy works to combat Dengue.”
The Department reiterates that the ‘4S’ strategy works to combat Dengue: Search and Destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and their containers; Self-protection measures like 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 a local hotspot or outbreak areas where an increase in cases is registered.
