DOH: Dengue cases increase by 190%

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 201,509 dengue cases were recorded in the country from Jan. 1 to Nov. 12, the Department of Health (DOH) reported yesterday.

The latest DOH Disease Surveillance Report showed the cases were 190 percent higher compared to the 69,505 reported during the same period last year.

Central Luzon logged the highest number of cases with 40,011; National Capital Region, 23,330 and Calabarzon, 17,046.

Cagayan Valley recorded the highest increase in cases at 1,607 percent or from 979 to 16,712; Zamboanga peninsula, 814 percent or from 1,037 to 9,478, and Caraga, 644 percent from 574 to 4,270.

Data from the DOH’s Epidemiology Bureau showed that dengue-related deaths increased this year at 656, a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.3 percent.

During the same period last year, 251 deaths were recorded, a CFR of 0.4 percent.

Central Visayas recorded the highest number of deaths due to dengue at 98 followed by Central Luzon with 85, and Western Visayas, 83.

The DOH reiterated its reminder to the public to practice the 4S strategy to prevent dengue.

The 4S strategy stands for search and destroy breeding places, secure self-protection, seek early consultation and support fogging or spraying in hotspot areas.