According to the Department of Health (DOH), dengue cases increased to 208,965 between January 1 and September 6, which is 68 percent more than during the same period previous year.
Although there have been 546 dengue deaths, the death rate has decreased from the previous year.
Increased across regions
Dengue cases also rose by 25% between July 21 and August 3, 2024, when 29,021 cases were reported. There were also 36,335 cases between August 4 and August 17, 2024. All regions saw that growth, except the Bangsamoro, Bicol, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Mimaropa.
"We are witnessing a continued and seasonal rise in dengue cases. It is crucial that we take immediate and concerted action to address this situation brought about by the rainy season," Herbosa said.
The Department of Health (DOH) advised people to get rid of mosquito breeding grounds, wear protective clothes and repellent, contact a doctor as soon as possible if they have symptoms, and support fogging or spraying hotspot regions.
Disease prevention
Herbosa emphasized the significance of efficient vector control, in particular, getting rid of mosquitoes and their breeding grounds, to stop the dengue case count from rising further.
DOH added that to carry out focused interventions in the impacted areas, it was closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with local governments.
