DOH Reports 39% Rise in Dengue Cases in the Philippines, Urges Preventive Measures

The Department of Health (DOH) has raised an urgent warning about the alarming rise in dengue cases across the Philippines this year. So far, from January 1 to August 10, 2024, the number of dengue infections has reached 150,354—a striking 39 percent increase over the 107,953 cases reported during the same period in 2023. While these figures are concerning, there’s a silver lining: fewer people have died from dengue this year compared to last. The death toll currently stands at 396, down slightly from 421 deaths during the same time frame last year.

It seems like every rainy season brings with it a new rise in dengue cases in the Philippines, and this year is no exception. Health officials are on edge, especially with dengue’s predictable seasonal surge during these wetter months. But there’s some hope in the numbers—more Filipinos might be catching the warning signs earlier, getting diagnosed, and managing the illness before it turns deadly. That could explain the lower fatality rate despite the rise in overall cases.

Over the last few weeks, from late June through late July, dengue cases jumped again—this time by 24 percent. The DOH reported that cases increased from 18,784 in early July to 23,290 by the end of the month. Although the number of new cases seemed to slow down at the beginning of August, health officials are cautious. They’ve warned that delays in consultations and reports could mean the real situation might be worse than it appears. Regions like SOCCSKARGEN, the Zamboanga Peninsula, and Bicol, however, have so far managed to avoid this recent spike.

To combat the ongoing rise, the DOH is calling on communities to be proactive. It’s the little things that can make a difference—getting rid of standing water, using insect repellent, and wearing light-colored clothing. And of course, if you start feeling the symptoms of dengue you should see a doctor as soon as possible. It’s up to all of us to help keep our neighborhoods safe from dengue outbreaks.