Dengue cases in CALABARZON have reached 14,003 as of August 17, 2024, from the start of the year, marking a 15.02 percent increase from the same period in 2023.

This information has prompted concern from the Department of Health (DOH) in the region.

In Calauan, Laguna, where a state of public health emergency has been declared, cases rose to 179 from 174.

Across CALABARZON, the rise in cases is causing alarm, especially in areas where the increase is more pronounced.

"Puwede natin sabihin na alarming in areas na mas mataas, but may mga areas naman po tayo na hindi ganoon ang nakikitang datos," Dr. Ariel Valencia, DOH-CALABARZON Regional Director, said.

"Of course, alam natin sa ganitong panahon na tag-ulan na mas marami ang nagiging imbakan ng tubig," Valencia added.

As of August 17, there have been 14,003 reported dengue cases in the region, up from 12,174 during the same period in 2023.

Rizal has recorded the highest number of cases with 4,323. It is followed by the following areas:

• Quezon (2,880),
• Cavite (2,878),
• Laguna (2,435),
• Batangas (1,167); and,
• Lucena City (320).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Residents like Eva Sabigan are taking steps to prevent dengue.

"Alagang alaga ko lalo ang mga bata. Ang paligid ko'y laging malinis para nga makaiwas sa karamdaman. Lalo na 'yung dengue sinasabing uso ngayong sakit," Sabigan said.

To protect students, safety nets have been installed in schools.

"Nagtalaga po tayo ng mga dagdag na spray man sa LGU para ma-augment ang manpower nila sa fogging natin atsaka mga eskuwelahan," Dr. Darren Venturina, Medical Officer III at DOH-CALABARZON, said.

Health officials urge those experiencing symptoms like fever, rashes, nosebleeds, joint pain, and weakness to seek medical consultation immediately.

Valencia emphasized the importance of practicing the 4S strategy.

"Search and Destroy, self-protection, seek consultation, and Selected fumigation or misting," he said.