The number of dengue cases in Pangasinan soared to 5,628 in 2024, a significant 175 percent increase compared to the same period the year prior, prompting local authorities to intensify efforts in dengue-prone areas.

The 5,628 cases were recorded from January to September 23, according to the Provincial Health Office (PHO).

In 2023, there were 2,059 cases reported in the same period.

As of this writing, the municipalities of Bayambang, Lingayen, San Carlos City, Urbiztondo, and Bugallon are being monitored closely due to high dengue activity.

"Nagka-conduct ng investigation ang atin pong team from the Provincial Health Office doon po sa mga barangay na may clustering of cases at tinitingnan kung saan nagmula ang Aedes aegypti," Dr. Anna Marie De Guzman, Pangasinan Provincial Health Officer, said.

Aedes aegypti, also known as the yellow fever mosquito, spreads viruses like yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

In Dagupan City, residents like Arturo Manaoat are taking matters into their own hands by cleaning the canals near their homes to prevent mosquitos from breeding.

"Nagwawalis kami sa bahay. Nilalagyan ng [bleach] saka wawalisin," Manaoat said.

The Dagupan City Health Office recorded 170 dengue cases from January to September 16, 2024, which is an increase of 72 percent from 99 cases in the same period last year.

Barangays Bonuan Gueset, Bonuan Boquig, Pantal, Lucao, and Mayombo are under heightened surveillance due to increased number of cases.

Health authorities remind residents to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings to avoid the spread of dengue.

"Kahit anong intervention ang gawin ng City Health kung hindi maglinis ng kapaligiran at ma-eliminate ang pagdami ng dengue cases, wala rin," Dr. Ma. Julita De Venecia, Dagupan City Health Officer, said.