Facade of the Department of Health office in Manila. INQUIRER.net file photo
MANILA, Philippines — While recording 14 fatalities this year alone, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Thursday a downward trend in dengue cases since the beginning of December last year.
Based on its data given to reporters, DOH observed a 16 percent decrease in nationwide dengue cases from December 3 to 16 (8,629 cases) to December 17 to 31 (7,274 cases).
“This has gone down further to 5,572 cases recorded from January 1 to 13, 2024,” it noted.
However, the department also mentioned that the numbers may still change due to potential late consultations and reports.
Regarding the tally of dengue-related deaths, the DOH reported 14 fatalities from January 1 to 13 this year.
It added that this puts the case fatality rate for 2024 at 0.25 percent.
The DOH said that this is 26 percent lower than the 19 reported deaths from December 17 to 31.
The department also said that as of January 13, Region XII showed a two percent increase in dengue cases from January 1 to 13, with 428 cases compared to the 418 cases reported 2 weeks prior or in December 17 to 31.
The Caraga region also posed a 13 percent increase from December 17 to 31, with 423 cases compared to the 375 cases from December 3 to 16.
The DOH then reminded the public of the “5S” strategy against dengue: search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, use self-protection measures, seek early consultation, agree to fog where needed, and initiate and maintain hydration.