DOH Calls for Increased Dengue Prevention Efforts in Western Visayas as Cases Rise

ILOILO CITY – The Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) has urged for a ramp-up in dengue prevention strategies after reporting an increase in cases in the region, with 3,482 infections and nine fatalities recorded from January 1 to June 8 this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, the center’s program medical coordinator for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, this year’s dengue case count represents a 22 percent increase compared to the same period last year, which saw 2,855 cases. During an online press conference, Dr. Natalaray highlighted the onset of the rainy season as a critical time to reinforce the 4S strategy across local communities. This strategy includes searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, seeking early consultation for fever, practicing self-protection measures, and supporting fogging and spraying in areas where mosquito breeding is intense. Dr. Natalaray emphasized that dengue is becoming a year-round threat, with transmission boosted even during dry spells such as El Niño, due to the proliferation of mosquito breeding sites in stored water.

The region has seen the highest number of cases in Iloilo province with 1,128 infections, followed by Aklan with 553, and Negros Occidental with 519. The disease has predominantly affected young children, with those aged 1 to 10 years constituting 40 percent of the cases, and those 11 to 20 years old making up 28 percent. The deaths reported this year were four in Iloilo province, three in Negros Occidental, and one each in Aklan and Capiz.

Dr. Natalaray also noted that 29 barangays are experiencing clusters of cases, with Barangay Odiongan identified as a hotspot, indicating a sustained increase in cases and dengue-related deaths. The health department is bracing for a potential rise in dengue cases as the rainy season progresses, creating more breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

As part of the ongoing Dengue Awareness Month, with the theme “Stop the Spread: Sama-Sama Nating Sugpuin ang Dengue,” the DOH WV CHD is focusing on community-wide participation and proactive measures to curb the spread of the disease.