Philippines: Dengue spikes in Caraga, PhilHealth increases benefit for severe dengue
Caraga dengue spike
Officials with the Department of Health (DOH) in the Caraga region in Mindanao are reporting a nearly 200 percent increase in dengue fever cases this year to date compared to 2023.
Through mid-November, officials report 13,319 dengue cases, up from 4,528 cases reported during the same period in 2023.
In addition, 74 deaths have been recorded.
Provinces reporting the most cases include Surigao del Norte (4,135 cases), Surigao del Sur (3,440) and Agusan del Norte (1,932).
DOH-Caraga in coordination with local government units, are intensifying efforts to combat dengue across the region.
Officials urge the public to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, use repellents, and seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms like fever.
Nationally, 314,785 dengue fever cases have been recorded through October 26.
PhilHealth
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) announced that starting November 1, they increased its benefit package for severe dengue from PHP16,000 ($272) to PHP47,000 ($798).
The state insurer said the increase is part of its ongoing benefit rationalization to provide adequate financial risk protection to Filipinos who are afflicted with the disease.
Earlier, its benefit package for dengue with or without warning signs have already increased from PHP10,000 to PHP13,000.
"PhilHealth is committed to supporting Filipinos, most especially during these challenging times," PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Ledesma said in a new release on Tuesday.
"With this two-fold increase in health insurance coverage for severe dengue, we hope to alleviate the financial burden on affected families. There is no more reason to delay seeking immediate medical treatment upon observing dengue symptoms,” he added.