By Mariela Angella Oladive
A 44-year-old resident of San Rafael has become the latest fatality in Iloilo’s dengue outbreak, bringing the province’s death toll to 33 this year.
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) confirmed that the patient, who tested positive for dengue through an NS1 antigen test, succumbed on December 1 to hypovolemic shock caused by dengue hemorrhagic fever.
This marks San Rafael’s first dengue-related death in 2024, with the municipality having recorded 136 cases so far.
From January 1 to December 7, Iloilo reported 11,550 suspected dengue cases, a staggering 525% increase compared to 1,734 cases and two deaths during the same period last year.
Oton remains the most affected municipality with 691 cases, followed by Passi City with 672 cases, including two deaths, and Leon with 535 cases.
The PHO urged residents to intensify efforts to prevent dengue, emphasizing the 4S strategy: Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation, and Support fogging in hotspot areas.
“Eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, using mosquito repellents, and seeking medical attention for symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, and joint pain are critical steps to protect the community,” the PHO said in a statement.
As the dengue outbreak continues to strain healthcare resources, officials call for coordinated community action to curb its spread and reduce fatalities.
