MARIKINA and Mandaluyong have surpassed the dengue alert threshold, according to data from the Health Department from the Metro Manila Center for Health Development.
Marikina has recorded over 400 cases of dengue this year from January to August, an increase of almost 60% compared to the 272 cases recorded during the same period in 2023.
Mandaluyong has also recorded over 200 cases during the same period.
Department of Health (DOH) Spokesperson Albert Domingo explained that surpassing the alert threshold serves as a warning to local governments to encourage them to take early action and prevent further increases in cases that could trigger an outbreak or epidemic.
In recent weeks, there has been a continuous increase in cumulative dengue cases, reaching the 150,000 mark with 396 deaths.
Despite this, Domingo stated that the DOH does not see the need for a nationwide dengue outbreak.
“To declare an outbreak in an area, the entire area should show a change in the data. Based on the data we have in our regions, there are still regions where the numbers have not increased. So, it’s better. And of course, it’s also better if the declaration is localized if necessary because the action will come from our local governments,” Domingo said.
