The Department of Health (DOH) in Manila has reported a slight decrease in dengue cases over the past month, marking a 5% reduction from last year’s figures during the same period. From January 19 to February 15, the country recorded 15,134 cases, down from 15,904 the previous year. This dip is attributed to increased public vigilance and community efforts spurred by recent health campaigns, including more frequent clean-up operations to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and targeted fogging in areas with high mosquito populations.
Despite this positive shift, the total number of dengue cases from January 1 to February 15 this year is alarmingly high at 43,732, a 56% increase from the 27,995 cases reported last year during the same timeframe. The regions of Calabarzon, the National Capital Region, and Central Luzon are the hardest hit, accounting for over half of the national total with 9,113, 7,551, and 7,362 cases respectively.
The DOH noted a slight improvement in the case fatality ratio, which stands at 0.38% this year, down from 0.42% last year, suggesting better diagnosis and management of the disease. The department highlighted that the Philippines’ dengue case fatality rate aligns with World Health Organization standards, indicating effective medical response.
Seventeen local government units (LGUs) in the three most affected regions are identified as dengue hotspots. The DOH is prepared to assist these LGUs in intensifying their response efforts. Local leaders have the power to declare outbreaks and are working closely with the Centers for Health Development to implement preventive measures. These include vector control and clean-up drives aimed at eradicating mosquito breeding sites.
To bolster the response, the DOH has distributed thousands of Dengue IgG/IgM and Dengue RDT (NS1) test kits across the country. Additionally, all government hospitals and health facilities have been instructed to reopen dengue fast lanes to speed up the triage, diagnosis, and treatment of suspected cases.
The DOH has also issued a call to action for parents and caregivers, particularly for children aged 10 to 14 and 5 to 9, who are most affected by dengue. Recommendations include dressing children in long-sleeved clothing and pants, using mosquito repellents, sleeping under mosquito nets, and steering clear of areas known for mosquito activity.