Based on the latest Disease Surveillance Report of the Department of Health (DOH), there are already 7,804 cases of dengue being reported from January 1 to 28.
The number is 69 percent higher than the 4,610 dengue cases reported during the same period last year.
The National Capital Region (1,061), Central Luzon (1,032), Northern Mindanao (834), and Davao Region (821) have recorded the highest number of dengue cases.
Seeing the highest increase when compared to 2022 are Mimaropa (300 percent; 90 to 360), Soccsksargen (282 percent; 138 to 527), and National Capital Region (104 percent; 519 to 1,061).
In contrast, there are fewer deaths due to dengue reported this year with 22 or a case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.28 percent.
Comparatively, there were more deaths in 2022 during the same period at 38 or a 0.82 percent CFR.
Having the most deaths caused by the mosquito-borne disease are Soccsksargen (four), Mimaropa (four), and Central Luzon (three).
Dengue is a virus that is transmitted by the day-biting Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
In a bid to prevent dengue, the DOH has repeatedly urged the public to practice the “4S” strategy, or Search and Destroy breeding places; Secure self-protection; Seek early consultation; and Support fogging/spraying in hotspot areas. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)