AS the Department of Health (DOH) continues its WILD (Water-borne disease, Influenza-like illness, Leptospirosis, and Dengue) monitoring, it has observed a slight increase in Dengue cases in the country.
From the earlier reported plateau, the number of cases have started climbing slightly by around 10%, from 5,547 reported last May 5 to 18, 2024 to 6,082 cases last May 19 to June 1. While there have only been 4,689 cases reported from June 2 to 15 as of this update, the DOH cautions that this number may still change due to incoming late reports.
From the start of 2024 to June 15, a total of 77,867 Dengue cases have already been reported, with 205 deaths. The number of cases this year is 15% higher than the previous year’s tally of 67,576 for the same period. Only five regions did not have an increase in cases in the period from May 5 to June 1: NCR, CALABARZON, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga. The DOH does not release specific names of local governments to allow for their coordinated risk communication, community engagement and response on localized Dengue outbreaks, as provided for under Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11332.
The DOH continues to monitor and assess the situation to implement necessary measures and interventions. The DOH ‘4S’ strategy to combat Dengue includes 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 with a doctor or health worker for any symptoms; and Support fogging or spraying in local hotspot or outbreak areas where an increase in cases is registered.
There have been notable initiatives in other countries like the Project Wolbachia of Singapore that uses bacteria in mosquitoes to disrupt the Dengue transmission process.
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) Vector Advisory Group as referred to by Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) recommends that pilot tests for this technology should involve rigorous and independent monitoring and evaluation.
“One solution to Dengue, while basic in principle, needs collective and sustained action. The rise in cases this year is still early and much can still be done. Dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga, we call on local governments to lead the way – Search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds!” said Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
