THIS year’s dengue cases are “higher” than those of the same period last year, the Department of Health (DOH) announced on Saturday, Nov. 23.
From the start of 2024 until Nov. 16, 2024, the DOH reported a total of 340,860 dengue cases, representing an 81 percent increase compared to 188,574 cases in the same period in 2023.
The DOH noted that the total number of deaths stands at 881, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.26 percent which is lower than the 0.34 percent CFR recorded last year.
Despite the higher number of cases, the DOH attributed the lower CFR to more proactive screening, testing, and treatment of the public.
DOWNWARD TREND
Citing data as of Nov. 16, the DOH observed a “downward trend” in new dengue cases.
From Oct. 20 to Nov. 2, the DOH reported 17,033 cases, which is 17 percent lower than the 20,498 cases reported from Oct. 6 to 19.
The DOH also pointed out that no significant increase in dengue cases has been reported in any region in the past six weeks.
However, the DOH cautioned that data collection is ongoing, and additional cases related to the effects of the typhoons may be recorded in the coming weeks.
TYPHOONS AND DENGUE
As it continues to monitor dengue cases in the country, the DOH has reminded the public to clean areas where water accumulates and seek early consultation if dengue symptoms appear.
The DOH strongly urged residents in regions affected by typhoons Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito to be more vigilant about mosquito breeding sites.
Following consecutive typhoons, the DOH warned that stagnant water may create additional breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
“Hanapin at tuyuin ang mga napag-ipunan ng tubig mula sa mga nagdaang bagyo (Identify and drain areas with stagnant water left by the typhoons),” said DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
Herbosa also urged the public to wear protective clothing and use insect repellents.
Those who experience dengue symptoms were urged to consult the nearest clinic or health center.
Herbosa emphasized that local government units (LGUs), barangays, and families must work together to keep their communities dengue-free.
The DOH explained that dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease common in tropical countries like the Philippines.
While most dengue cases are asymptomatic, the DOH noted that when symptoms do appear, they typically include high fever (40°C), severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea, rash, pain behind the eyes, vomiting, and swollen lymph nodes.
The symptoms of dengue usually begin four to 10 days after a mosquito bite and last for two to seven days. Most cases resolve within one to two weeks, the DOH added.
The DOH also noted that some individuals may develop severe dengue, which requires hospitalization.
Symptoms of severe dengue often appear after the high fever subsides and include intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums and nose, fatigue, restlessness, blood in vomit or stool, extreme thirst, pale and cold skin, and weakness.
While there is no specific treatment for dengue, the DOH pointed out that its symptoms can be managed.
The DOH reiterated that the best way to prevent dengue is by avoiding mosquito bites, especially during the day. (Merlina Hernando-Malipot / MB)
