Dengue cases up, DOH warns public

MANILA, Philippines —  Dengue cases have increased and strategies must be implemented to combat the virus, according to the Department of Health.

Latest DOH data showed a 10 percent increase.

“From 5,547 cases reported from May 5 to 18, (cases went up) to 6,082 from May 19 to June 1. While there have only been 4,689 cases reported from June 2 to 15, the DOH cautions that this number may still change due to incoming late reports,” the agency said in a statement.

From Jan. 1 to June 15, 77,867 dengue cases have been reported, with 205 deaths.

“The number of cases this year is 15 percent higher than the previous year’s tally of 67,576 for the same period,” the DOH noted.

Only five regions did not record an increase from May 5 to June 1: National Capital Region, Calabarzon, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Caraga.

Filipinos are advised to practice the “4S” strategy to combat dengue: 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 for any symptoms and support fogging or spraying in local hotspots or outbreak areas where a case increase is registered.