DOH sees spike in dengue cases in nine Luzon areas

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Department of Health said it observed a “concerning rise” in the number of dengue cases in nine areas in Luzon.

In a statement on Monday, Feb. 17, the agency said the nine local government units were in Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila.

Quezon City declared a dengue outbreak over the weekend after 10 people, including eight minors, have died due to the mosquito-borne diseases this year.

“DOH centers for health development (regional offices), through their respective regional epidemiology and surveillance units, have been advising their ESU counterparts at LGU (local government unit) level,” the DOH said.

“The declaration of a local Dengue outbreak may only be done by an LGU official, in accordance with law,” it said.

The DOH said it recorded 28,234 cases as of Feb. 1, or a 40 percent spike from the previous year. The agency said the cases were on an upward trend.

“Despite the upward trend of dengue cases, the DOH logged a decrease in the case fatality rate (CFR) as of Feb. 1 with a CFR of 0.35%, compared to last year’s higher CFR of 0.42% in the same period,” it added.

The department said the rise in water and food-borne diseases, influenza-like illnesses, leptospirosis, and dengue are due to more rainfall and thunderstorms.

“The DOH continues to remind the public to seek early consultation, search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, use self-protection by applying anti-repellent lotions and wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, and support fogging in hotspot areas,” health officials said.

“The public is also advised to practice proper handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces in public places,” they said.