DOH reports slightly lower dengue cases from January to May 7

This undated photo released by National Institute of Infectious Diseases via Kyodo News, shows a tiger mosquito. Dengue fever is transmitted by mosquitoes. (AP Photo/National Institute of Infectious Diseases via Kyodo News) JAPAN OUT

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday said the country has logged lower number of dengue cases from January 1 to May 7.

It said the total 25,268 dengue cases during the first five months of the year is a six percent decrease from the 27,010 dengue cases recorded during the same period in 2021.

The DOH, however, noted a sharp increase in dengue cases from March 20 to April 30 with 11,435 patients. This figure, it noted, is 94 percent higher than the 5,901 cases reported during the same period last year.

Despite the recorded lower cases of the illness caused by an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito bite, some areas in the country declared a dengue outbreak. For one was Zamboanga, which local government said there was a 1,793 percent increase in dengue cases.

READ: Dengue outbreak declared in Zamboanga City

Nevertheless, Health Undersecretary and spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire assured the public that they are taking “proactive measure” in preventing outbreaks and an increase in dengue cases.

“Rest assured that the DOH is closely monitoring every disease trend, and is well-prepared to respond to any healthcare aid any Juan or Juana may need,” she said.

Vergeire also reiterated the importance of abiding with the “4S” which stands for search and destruction of mosquito-breeding sites; self-protection measures by wearing long pants and sleeves; seeking early consultation; and fogging or spraying.

KGA