Negros Occidental reports rise in dengue cases

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — An increase in the number of dengue fever cases has been noted in 10 localities in Negros Occidental, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported yesterday.

In its data, the PHO reported an increase of 7.55 percent in dengue cases or 712 cases from January to June 29, as compared to 662 cases during the same period in 2023.

It also logged three dengue-related deaths in the first six months of 2024.

Following this, the PHO is focusing its anti-dengue campaign in the towns and cities that were included in the Top 10 list.

Included in the list are Hinobaan town with 70 cases, Sipalay City with 64 cases and one death, Cadiz City (63), San Carlos City (53), Silay City and Cauayan town with 46 cases each, Kabankalan City (43), Talisay City (33), Victorias City (32) and Sagay City (30).

Provincial Health Officer Girlie Pinongan yesterday said the PHO is focusing its anti-dengue efforts in these localities, especially in Hinobaan town and Sipalay City where more people were admitted to hospitals.

Pinongan also said they have informed all 10 local government units of the report and advised their chief executives to initiate sanitation interventions to prevent a surge in the cases.

She noted that children – aged one to 10 years old – comprised the bulk of those hospitalized for dengue.

Meanwhile, the Bacolod City Health Office logged 179 dengue cases from January to June 29, which indicated a 19.7 percent decrease from last year’s 223 cases.

Dengue fever outbreaks often occur during the rainy season.