DOH notes small hike in dengue but warns cases may still go up

FILE PHOTO: Logo of the Department of Health (DOH) and dengue mosquito. The DOH reported a slight increase in dengue cases nationwide with 77,688 infections recorded as of June 15, 2024. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported a slight increase in dengue cases nationwide with 77,688 infections recorded as of June 15.

However, the DOH also warned that figures may still rise due to “incoming late reports.”

According to the agency, the count of dengue cases as of June 15 is 15 percent higher than the previous year’s 67,576 cases logged in the same period.

READ: The dengue fight: From personal vigilance to collective resilience

The DOH also said a small increase was observed from May 19 to June 1 with 6,082 cases as 5,547 infections were recorded from May 5-18.

“While there have only been 4,689 cases reported from June 2 to 15 as of this update, the DOH cautions that this number may still change due to incoming late reports,” it noted.

Only five of the country’s 17 regions did not post increases in dengue cases from May 5 to June 1, the DOH said, enumerating that these areas are Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Central Visayas, astern Visayas, and Caraga.

READ: DOH exec says Metro Manila has highest dengue cases for past 5 years

The DOH then encouraged the public to utilize the “4S Strategy” to combat dengue, which the World Haalth Organization describes as a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people.

The 4S Strategy against dengue are:

• 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 local hotspot or outbreak areas where an increase in cases is registered.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said: “One solution to dengue, while basic in principle, needs collective and sustained action. The rise in cases this year is still early and much can still be done.”

The DOH vowed to continue monitoring and assessing dengue infections in the country to implement necessary measures and interventions.