By Mariela Angella Oladive
Dengue cases in Western Visayas have surged past 2,000, with the Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) reporting a concerning uptick.
The total number has reached 2,124 from January 1 to April 6, marking an 11 percent increase compared to the 1,920 cases recorded in the same period last year.
Among the provinces and highly urbanized cities (HUCs) in the region, Iloilo remains the hardest-hit, reporting a total of 654 cases, including two fatalities. Following closely behind is Aklan Province, with 370 cases and one death.
Capiz, Negros Occidental, and Antique recorded 300, 294, and 180 cases, respectively.
Guimaras and Iloilo City reported 93 and 177 cases, while Bacolod City has 56 cases.
Children aged one to ten constitute 42 percent of these cases.
Of particular concern is the increased attack rate of dengue in several provinces, including Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, and Guimaras, while 24 barangays across the region experienced a clustering of cases.
In response to the escalating situation, the DOH Region 6 has intensified dengue prevention efforts, implementing the 5S Strategy: Search and destroy breeding sites, Self-protection with repellents, Seek early consultation, Support fogging in hotspots, and Sustain hydration with local hydration stations.
Health authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and adhere to the abovementioned preventive measures to curb the spread of dengue.
