Philippines dengue cases top 200,000 in 2024
The Philippines Department of Health (DOH) reported Thursday that the national dengue fever total has eclipsed the 200,000 mark in 2024 with 208,965 cases through September 6, including 546 fatalities.
This is a 68 percent increase compared to last year at the same time (124,157).
"Currently, cases are on an uptrend, showing a 25 percent increase from Aug. 4 to Aug. 17, 2024 with 36,335 cases reported, compared to the 29,021 reported from July 21 to August 3, 2024," the DOH said.
All regions except Mimaropa, Bicol, Zamboanga Peninsula, and BARMM showed an increase from Aug. 4 to Aug. 17.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said he attributes the increase in cases to an increase in mosquitoes, which occurs when they have breeding sites.
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He emphasized that searching for and destroying these sites, along with keeping the surroundings clean, will help prevent both dengue and mosquito infestation.
The public is reminded to practice the 4S strategy against dengue:
Search and Destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and their containers;
Use 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 hotspots or outbreak areas where an increase in cases is registered.