MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Monday that it is providing assistance to nine local government units (LGUs) across Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and the National Capital Region (NCR), where dengue cases have sharply increased.

In a radio interview, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo revealed that Quezon City is one of the Metro Manila LGUs experiencing a surge in dengue cases.

On Saturday, the Quezon City government declared a dengue outbreak after reporting 1,769 cases from January 1 to February 14, nearly 200 percent higher than the same period in 2024.

The outbreak has led to at least 10 deaths, eight of whom were minors.

Nationwide, the DOH reported 28,234 dengue cases from January 1 to February 1, marking a 40-percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.

“What’s different this time is the early onset of rains. This is not the usual rainy season; it’s the shear line, the ITCZ [intertropical convergence zone], and easterlies causing more rainfall, leading to stagnant water where mosquitoes breed,” Domingo explained.

He noted that climate change has altered the behavior of mosquitoes that transmit the dengue virus.

To prevent further spread, Domingo urged the public to wear protective clothing, use mosquito repellent, and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

One of the primary symptoms of dengue is a high-grade fever, ranging from 39 to 40°C, which appears 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite.

Domingo advised, “Sometimes, we need to be extra cautious when the fever subsides after four or five days. The pattern of dengue fever involves a spike in temperature, followed by a sharp drop.”

He also emphasized the importance of recognizing advanced symptoms after the fever has passed, such as gum bleeding, rashes, and changes in stool color, which indicate internal bleeding.

The DOH Centers for Health Development, through their respective Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Units (RESU), continue to provide guidance to LGUs regarding dengue control measures.

The DOH clarified that the declaration of a local dengue outbreak is an action taken by LGU officials in accordance with legal requirements.

“The declaration of an outbreak does not mean a disaster. It simply indicates that the number of cases has exceeded what is typically expected for that period of the year,” Domingo said.

ia/mnm

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has reported an 11% decrease in dengue cases from January to the first half of February.

According to the DOH, from January 14 to 27, a total of 7,434 dengue cases were reported, compared to the 8,368 cases logged from January 1 to 13.

Meanwhile, from January 28 to February 10, instances decreased to 5,267, the health agency noted.

“The figures provided are subject to change due to potentially delayed consultations and reporting,” the health department cautioned.

The DOH is continuing to monitor and assess the situation to implement necessary measures and interventions.

“The DOH encourages everyone to strengthen the implementation of the 5S strategy against dengue: Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, use Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation, Say yes to fogging where needed, and Start and sustain hydration,” it added.

(el Amigo/MNM)