With more than 14,400 cases with 25 deaths
TACLOBAN CITY—The Department of Health (DOH) in Eastern Visayas has reported a surge of dengue fever which now reached 14,414 cases from January 1 to October 26, 2024, with 25 recorded fatalities.
This number represents a staggering 314% increase compared to the same period last year, which saw 3,485 cases and 9 deaths.
From October 20 to 26 alone, cases rose by 8,720%, with 441 reported cases compared to just five in the previous week, according to Jelyn Malibago, the DOH regional information officer, on Monday, Nov. 4.
Malibago clarified, however, that this spike was largely due to delayed reporting from their provincial and city health offices.
“This is mainly because of late reporting. Generally, we have noted a decrease in the number of cases across all provinces compared to previous months, thanks to the concerted efforts of local government units, national agencies, and the public,” she explained.
Malibago said that the delay was due to the needed verification process and cleaning of data to ensure that the information falls as dengue cases.
Despite the downward trend in recent weeks, the DOH has renewed its call to the public to strictly implement the 4S strategy to prevent the spread of dengue.
The 4S strategy includes search and destroy mosquito breeding sites by eliminating potential mosquito habitats both indoors and outdoors, ensuring stored water is covered and kept clean; seek consultation promptly, especially if experiencing sudden high fever within two days along with other symptoms; self-protect by using insect repellent, and wearing long sleeves, light-colored clothing, and long pants; and support fogging activities in communities if a dengue outbreak is anticipated.
Hospitals and health facilities have also been urged to ensure the availability of dengue fast lanes, sufficient healthcare providers, and necessary dengue medicines to provide prompt care, Malibago added.
Of the six provinces in the region, Leyte recorded the highest number of dengue cases, with 6,116, followed by Samar with 3,621 cases; Southern Leyte, 2,551; Northern Samar, 855; and Biliran, 271.
The 25 deaths attributed to dengue were recorded in the following areas: Samar with 11, Leyte with 6, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar with 3 each, and Southern Leyte with 2.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.
Symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and a skin rash.
In severe cases, the disease can progress to life-threatening conditions marked by severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, blood in bodily excretions, and breathing difficulties.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
