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Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Community action to curb dengue crisis in PH

The Philippines faces a dire challenge with dengue cases on the rise, prompting healthcare professionals (HCPs) to advocate for sustained prevention and innovative solutions. From January to October 2024, the country reported 314,785 cases and 3,000 deaths, the highest in Southeast Asia.

Rising global temperatures and frequent typhoons exacerbate the problem, creating ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, particularly in grassroots communities. Dr. Florentina Ty, former president of the Philippine Pediatrics Society (PPS), stresses the need for proactive strategies. 

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“We must go beyond a ‘ningas kugon’ approach and embed sustained measures into our healthcare system,” she said.

Dengue has been a persistent public health issue since the Philippines reported the region’s first epidemic in 1954. Despite efforts, severe cases such as dengue shock syndrome continue to claim lives, primarily among children.

Unlike other ASEAN countries, the Philippines has yet to classify dengue as a vaccine-preventable disease. The absence of an FDA-approved dengue vaccine further hinders efforts to control outbreaks. Compounding the issue is the controversy surrounding the previous dengue vaccine, which undermined public trust despite unproven allegations.

Countries like Sri Lanka and Singapore have achieved significant progress through integrated approaches, including vaccination programs, aggressive vector control, and community education. Sri Lanka reduced dengue fatality rates from 5 percent in 1996 to near-zero in 2024.

A second-generation dengue vaccine offers renewed hope. Already approved in several ASEAN nations, it provides protection regardless of prior exposure, addressing the limitations of earlier vaccines. “This vaccine has a higher safety profile and can be administered without prior exposure to dengue,” said Dr. Ty.

The new vaccine, developed using a dengue virus backbone, targets all dengue serotypes, with proven efficacy against severe dengue type 2 (DENV-2). By eliminating the need for prior screening, it enables broader immunization efforts.

The Department of Health’s 5S campaign—Search and Destroy, Self-Protection, Seek Early Consultation, Support Fogging, and Sustain Hydration—remains central to dengue prevention. However, Dr. Ty emphasized the need for dedicated community champions to ensure the continuity of initiatives despite leadership changes.

The medical community is committed to achieving “Zero Dengue Deaths by 2030,” aligning with the World Health Organization’s goals. “Achieving this is possible if we work together,” said Dr. Ty. “By prioritizing vector control and integrating vaccines, we can significantly reduce cases and mortality.”

Dr. Ty also highlighted lessons from the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, which showcased how robust immunization efforts save lives. She called for similar strategies to complement dengue prevention measures and reduce its burden.

Healthcare experts continue to push for sustainable and innovative solutions, inspired by the success of neighboring countries. They envision a future where Filipino communities are protected from the devastating impact of this preventable disease.

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