DOH records 65% drop in Bicol’s dengue cases

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Health (DOH) said that dengue cases in Bicol has dropped by 65 percent during the first two quarters of this year with 1,231 cases as compared to over 3,000 cases for the same period last year.

According to the dengue surveillance units, from the period January to July 18, they have recorded 1,231 cases and 10 deaths, a significant drop from the 3,501 cases and 42 deaths reported during the same period last year.

Dengue tracker recorded that Camarines Sur has the highest number of dengue cases recorded with 601 cases and two deaths; followed by Sorsogon with 234 cases and three deaths; Camarines Norte with 138 cases and two deaths; Albay with 111 cases with three deaths; Masbate with 110 cases; Catanduanes with 33 cases; and others (transients) – 4 cases.

DOH tracker indicated that dengue victims were mostly children aged 6-10, male (49 to 53 percent).

DOH Bicol warned that the dengue cases could increase due to the onset of the rainy season where the mosquito borne disease thrives.

The advisory urged the public to follow 4S strategy to eliminate, it not lessen dengue cases in the region.

4S means Search and destroy mosquito-breeding sites, Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation and Say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak or a hotspot.