THE Department of Health (DOH) warns against rise of dengue incidence nationwide even as it noted less dengue-related deaths this year compared to last year.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stressed that seeking early consultation and proper treatment of can effectively prevent death.
DOH data showed there were 337 dengue deaths this year compared 378 during the same period last year.
The national data as of July 27, 2024 listed a total of 128,834 dengue cases which is 33 percent higher than the 97,211 cases in the same period last year.
The DOH reminded the public of its 4S strategy against dengue as cases are still on an uptrend.
DOH records showed a significant increase from 12,153 cases recorded from June 16-29, to 18,349 cases recorded from June 30 to July 13.
Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Cagayan Valley, and CALABARZON regions showed a continuous rise in dengue incidence in the recent six weeks counting back from July 27, 2024.
“We know that more stagnant water means more mosquitoes and more dengue. So let us keep searching and destroying containers that allow mosquitoes to multiply," said Herbosa.
“Using self-protection measures like clothes that cover the skin, mosquito nets and repellents will help slow down the rise in cases. Let us also support fogging or spraying in areas identified as local hotspots or outbreak zones,” he also said.
The DOH also continues to protect the Filipino public from water -borne illness, influenza-like illness, leptospirosis, and dengue that are common during the rainy season.
Meanwhile, two weeks after typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) caused flooding in several areas nationwide, the DOH continues to be on guard against leptospirosis.
While only 67 cases of leptospirosis have been recorded nationwide from July 14-27, DOH epidemiologists remained cautious as most likely, there would be delayed reports.
The incubation period of leptospirosis may range from two to 30 days, usually showing symptoms in one or two weeks after exposure to flood waters.
From Jan. 1 to July 27, the total number of recorded leptospirosis cases reached 1,444, which is 42 percent lower compared to the 2,505 cases in the same period last year. One hundred and sixty two deaths have also been recorded over the same period this year.
Herbosa reminded the public that flood waters are dirty and must be avoided.
He also said antibiotic prophylaxis drugs are available by prescription. The price freeze for Doxycycline stays until September 23, while free capsules are also accessible at government health centers and hospitals nationwide.
“Do not wait for symptoms to appear; consult a doctor or health center for prophylaxis within 24-48 hours after wading through flood waters,” he said.
