Philippines dengue cases up 82% in 2024
The Philippines Department of Health (DOH) is reporting an increase in dengue fever cases during the first nine months of 2024, according to recent data published.
From the beginning of the year through October 4, 269,467 confirmed dengue infections have been recorded. This is a 82 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023 when 147,678 cases were recorded.
The total is double the total cases reported two months ago when 136,000 were reported.
A total of 702 deaths have been reported, with a case fatality rate of 0.26 percent.
DOH reminds the public of the 4S --Search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating stagnant water and their containers; 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.
Dengue is a disease caused by a virus spread through mosquito bites. The disease can take up to 2 weeks to develop with illness generally lasting less than a week.
Symptoms from dengue include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle and joint pain, and minor bleeding.
Dengue can become severe within a few hours. Severe dengue is a medical emergency, usually requiring hospitalization.
In severe cases, health effects can include hemorrhage (uncontrolled bleeding), shock (seriously low blood pressure), organ failure, and death.Â