MANILA – The Philippines is grappling with a surge in dengue cases, with health authorities reporting a 39% increase in infections compared to the same period last year.
According to data from the Department of Health (DOH), a total of 150,354 dengue cases were recorded nationwide from January 1 to August 10 this year, up from 107,953 cases during the same period in 2023. The death toll, however, has remained relatively stable, with 396 fatalities reported so far in 2024, compared to 421 deaths last year.
The DOH noted a concerning 24% spike in dengue cases from June 30 to July 13, with 23,290 infections reported, up from 18,784 cases in the previous two-week period. While there was a slight dip in cases from July 28 to August 10, with 13,369 infections logged, health officials warned that there may be delays in reporting and consultations.
“All regions except Soccsksargen, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Bicol showed an increase in cases in the recent three to four weeks counting back from Aug. 10,” the DOH said in a statement.
Dengue, a potentially life-threatening mosquito-borne disease, is known to have a seasonal pattern, with case counts typically rising during the rainy months. The DOH has urged the public to take proactive measures to curb the outbreak, including searching for and destroying mosquito breeding grounds, such as any containers with stagnant water.
“The declaration of local disease outbreaks must come from provincial, city, or municipal authorities as stated in Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11332,” the DOH said, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts between national and local governments to combat the dengue scourge.
As the Philippines grapples with this public health challenge, health experts emphasize the need for sustained vigilance and community-driven initiatives to control the spread of the disease and protect vulnerable populations.
