DOH logs 21 dengue deaths in first half of January
Twenty-one people have reportedly died due to dengue in 2025 so far, data by the Department of Health (DOH) showed Thursday.
The DOH said that from January 1 to 18, 2025, there were 10,842 dengue cases recorded in the country, which was 8% lower than the 11,781 cases logged during the same period in 2024.
The 21 fatalities in the first half of January 2025 were also 50% lower than the 42 deaths last year.
The numbers may also still change due to late consultations and reports.
Dengue virus is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes and is common in countries with tropical climates like the Philippines.
Symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, and rashes. Some may also experience pain behind the eyes, vomiting, and swollen glands.
These symptoms start 4 to 10 days after exposure from a mosquito bite. DOH said that most of those infected will get better in 1 to 2 weeks.
The Health department has also been reminding the public to practice the 4S strategy against dengue: Search and destroy breeding places; Secure self-protection; Seek early consultation; and Support fogging or spraying in hotspot areas, especially during the rainy season.
Flu-like cases
Meanwhile, the DOH also recorded 5,789 cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) nationwide from January 1 to 18, 2025. This was 54% lower than the 12,620 cases in the same period last year.
One person also reportedly died due to ILI so far this year.
The top causative agents of ILI in the country were Influenza A, Influenza B, Rhinovirus, Enterovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Adenovirus.
The DOH earlier this month advised the public, especially the vulnerable groups, to take caution and practice respiratory etiquette this Amihan season against ILI.
Respiratory conditions such as allergies or respiratory infections may increase during the Northeast Monsoon or Amihan season due to cooler weather, according to the agency.
— LA, GMA Integrated News