DOH: Dengue cases drop 24.4%

MANILA, Philippines — Dengue cases nationwide decreased  early this month, according to the Department of Health.

The DOH said it recorded 2,024 dengue cases from Jan. 1 to 13, which was 24.40 percent lower compared to 7,274 from Dec. 17 to 31 and 8,629 from Dec. 3 to 16.

Fourteen deaths or a case fatality rate of .25 percent were reported during the same period.

The DOH said the number of dengue cases this month may still change due to late consultations and reports.

An increase in dengue cases was recorded only in Caraga, with 846, and Soccsksargen, 645.

Despite the decline in cases, the DOH reminded the public to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of dengue.

“Dengue cases increase during the rainy season. With El Niño, families and establishments are expected to store water,” the department said.

Improper storage of water can serve as breeding sites for dengue-causing mosquitoes, the department said.

Health officials had earlier warned of a dengue epidemic, which was experienced during the previous El Niño.

The DOH has been reminding the public on the “5S” strategy: search and destroy mosquito breeding sites; uphold self-protection, like using insect repellents; seek early consultation at the nearest health care facility; support fogging, spraying and misting in hot spot areas, and sustain hydration.

Rabies cases spike

Meanwhile, the DOH reported seven human rabies cases in the first two weeks this month.

Records show that rabies cases started to increase in December last year.

“Rabies kills,” the DOH said as it stressed the need for pet owners to have their dogs and cats vaccinated.