The number of dengue cases in Western Visayas is increasing, according to the Department of Health (DOH-6).
From May 15 to 21, the DOH-6 recorded 266 cases of dengue (including one death), the highest single-week tally this year.
Of the additional cases, 96 were from Negros Occidental, 84 from Antique, 39 from Iloilo province, 14 from Capiz, 12 from Bacolod City, 8 from Aklan, 6 from Iloilo City and 1 from other region but was detected in WV.
The region’s total case count is now at 1,693, higher by 110 percent compared to 808 cases logged in the same period last year.
The one additional death came from Antique. This brought the region’s death toll to 20, of which 6 from Iloilo province, 5 from Negros Occidental, 4 from Bacolod City, 3 from Antique, and 1 each from Aklan and Iloilo City.
Capiz and Guimaras registered zero dengue-related deaths in the first six months of the year.
All in all, Negros Occidental recorded the highest dengue cases in the region with 657, followed by Antique (400), Iloilo province (262), Bacolod City (139), Capiz (104), Aklan (54), Iloilo City (50), Guimaras (21) and 6 from other regions but detected in WV.
To avert the continuous increase in dengue cases, the DOH reminded the public to follow the 4S strategy, which stand for search and destroy, secure self-protection, seek early consultation, and support spraying or misting to prevent an outbreak.
“As the rainy season approaches, many diseases spread – and one of those is dengue. We are taking proactive actions in preventing outbreaks and raising awareness to curb the increase in the number of cases,” said DOH Undersecreatry Dr. Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire.
“Rest assured that the DOH is closely monitoring every disease trend, and is well-prepared to respond to any healthcare aid any Juan or Juana may need,” she added.IMT
