The Department of Health (DOH) expressed alarm over the continuous increase in the number of reported dengue cases across the country.
Based on DOH data, dengue case count in the Philippines from January to June this year has reached 51,622, up from the 32,610 for the same period in 2021.
A total of 239 dengue-related deaths have been recorded since January, including 40 in January, 37 in February, 34 in March, 47 in April, 62 in May, and 19 in June.
“Kaya po siya medyo nakakaalarma na sinasabi natin dahil naaapektuhan niya ang ating mga kabataan at nagkaroon rin tayo ng mga admission sa ating hospitals. Ayaw po nating mangyari ‘yan,” DOH Spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire said.
Central Luzon, Central Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula have recorded the highest number of cases. At least 15 of the 17 regions in the country have reached epidemic threshold in the past four weeks.
Funds have already been downloaded to DOH regional offices for the reactivation of dengue fast lanes.
Dengue brigades in communities and schools have also been mobilized for the implementation of the 4 o’clock habit to destroy mosquito breeding sites.
The public is reminded to follow the 4S strategy to address rising cases of dengue. – Report from Mark Fetalco-ag
