DOH: Over 90,000 PH dengue cases in H1 2024

The Philippines reported more than 90,000 dengue cases in the first six months of the year, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

Latest data from the DOH showed a total of 90,119 dengue cases monitored in the country as of June 29, with 233 deaths during the same period.  This is 19% higher than the 75,968 cases recorded in the Philippines year-on-year.

The DOH also said that 8,246 cases were reported from June 2 to June 15 — up by 30% from the 6,323 dengue cases monitored from the start of the rainy season on May 19 to June 1.

“The DOH is cautious in interpreting case counts especially as regards the most recent tally as there may be incoming late reports,” the Health  Department said.

Based on the epidemic curve, the DOH  said weekly cases monitored from January 1 to May 11 breached the year-on-year figures but it returned to below or just slightly above the 2023 data from May 12 to June 29.

“This may be attributed to ongoing intensified efforts of local governments to kill mosquitoes by searching and destroying their breeding water,” it added.

Around seven regions reported increased dengue cases over the past six weeks: MIMAROPA, Cagayan Valley, Western Visayas, Ilocos  Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and the National Capital Region.

In June, the DOH said over 60,000 dengue cases were reported in the country from January to May. —  DVM, GMA Integrated New