The Department of Health on Friday reported a five percent decline in dengue cases over the past four weeks, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for intensified monitoring and immediate response.
“Mosquito control remains the main means for the control of dengue. Let’s unite from Batanes to Jolo, every four o’clock, against mosquitoes,” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.
From January 5 to 18, 2025, the country logged 15,904 cases.
The number dropped to 15,134 between January 19 and February 15, 2025, signaling a positive trend.
Health officials attributed the decline to increased public awareness and collective efforts, including frequent clean-up drives to eliminate stagnant water and targeted misting operations in high-risk areas.
Despite the recent drop, the total number of dengue cases from January to February 15, 2025 has reached 43,732 — a 56 percent increase compared to the 27,995 cases reported during the same period last year.
“Keep the inside and outside of the house dry. Do not allow mosquitoes to breed. Wear long sleeves and pants, use anti-mosquito lotion or spray. Consult early if you have symptoms — don’t worry about the cost, PhilHealth will cover it,” the health chief said.
The DOH encouraged the public to seek early medical consultation if experiencing symptoms such as high fever (40°C or higher), headache, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or skin rashes.
Three regions accounted for more than half of the total dengue cases: Calabarzon (9,113), the National Capital Region (7,551), and Central Luzon (7,362).
Seventeen local government units (LGUs) in these regions have been identified as dengue hotspots.
The DOH has empowered local chief executives to declare outbreaks in their areas and assured them of full support in implementing response strategies.
Meanwhile, the Centers for Health Development are coordinating with LGUs to enforce preventive measures, including widespread clean-up drives and enhanced vector control initiatives.
Thousands of Dengue IgG/IgM and Dengue RDT (NS1) test kits have been prepositioned across healthcare facilities to support early detection and diagnosis.
Government hospitals and health centers have been directed to activate dengue fast lanes to ensure timely medical intervention for suspected cases.