The Department of Health (DOH) Western Visayas Center for Health and Development has reported a troubling rise in dengue, with 360 new cases and one death recorded in the region from June 16 to June 22, 2024.
This brings the total number of dengue cases to a concerning 4,030 for the year—a 25 percent increase or plus 817 cases, compared to the 3,213 recorded in the same period the previous year.
A 36-year-old man from Antique became the latest victim, succumbing to the disease last June 22, according to the DOH medical bulletin. This raises the total number of fatalities in the region to 10.
The DOH data indicate that children aged 1 to 10 are the most affected, accounting for 39 percent of the total cases.
Among the provinces, Iloilo recorded the highest number of new cases with 135, followed by Negros Occidental with 65, Aklan with 53, Guimaras with 47, Capiz with 31, and Antique with 29 cases.
Currently, 54 barangays across Western Visayas have been identified as having a clustering of dengue cases. The DOH has declared Barangay Odiongan in Badiangan, Iloilo a “hotspot area” due to the high number of cases, which include fatalities.
In response to the surge, the DOH is urging the public to strictly implement the 4S strategy: Search and Destroy mosquito breeding sites, Secure self-protection measures, Support fogging and spraying in hotspots, and Seek early consultation when symptoms arise.
In an effort to combat the spread of dengue, the Iloilo City Government has launched a city-wide clean-up drive every Saturday, targeting 180 barangays to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites.
Similarly, the Iloilo Provincial Government continues its “Limpyo Iloilo” program, which aims to identify and destroy possible mosquito breeding sites in the province to prevent further spread of dengue.
Health officials are calling on residents to remain vigilant and proactive in following dengue prevention measures to safeguard their communities and reduce the impact of the disease in the region.