Press Release | 07 August 2024

The Department of Health (DOH) continues to protect the Filipino public from W.I.L.D (Water-borne illness, Influenza-like Illness, Leptospirosis, and Dengue) diseases that are common during the rainy season.

National data as of July 27, 2024 (Morbidity Week 30) listed a total of 128,834 Dengue cases, 33% higher compared to the 97,211 cases in the same period last year. However, fewer Dengue deaths have been recorded this year (n=337) compared to last year (n=378) for the same time period. The DOH sees the lower number of deaths this year (despite the higher number of cases) as an indication of people seeking early consultation, and hospitals doing better case management.

The Department continues to advise the public of its 4S strategy against Dengue as cases are still on an uptrend, showing an increase from 12,153 cases recorded from June 16-29, to 18,349 cases recorded from June 30 to July 13. Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Cagayan Valley, and CALABARZON regions have shown a continuous rise in Dengue numbers in the recent six weeks counting back from July 27, 2024.

“We know that more stagnant water means more mosquitoes and more Dengue. So let us keep searching and destroying containers that allow mosquitoes to multiply. The good news is seeking consultation early and treating patients properly leads to less deaths even with more cases – look at our numbers,” said Health Secretary Herbosa. “Using self-protection measures like clothes that cover the skin, mosquito nets and repellants will help slow down the rise in cases. Let us also support fogging or spraying in areas identified as local hotspots or outbreak zones,” Sec. Herbosa added.

Meanwhile, two weeks after Typhoon Carina and an enhanced Southwest monsoon (Habagat) caused flooding in several areas nationwide, the DOH continues to be on guard for Leptospirosis. While only 67 cases of Leptospirosis have been recorded nationwide from July 14-27, DOH epidemiologists are cautious as there most likely are delayed reports. Furthermore, the incubation period of Leptospirosis may range from 2 to 30 days, usually showing symptoms around 1-2 weeks after exposure to flood waters. Since the start of 2024 until July 27, the total number of recorded Leptospirosis cases stands at 1,444, which is 42% lower compared to the 2,505 cases in the same period last year. One hundred and sixty two (162) deaths have also been recorded for the same time period this year.

“Thank you to our mass media colleagues and local government units for being strong partners in risk communication against Leptospirosis. Let us continue to amplify that flood waters are dirty and must be avoided. For those who have no choice but to wade, there is a widely available antibiotic prophylaxis by prescription. The price freeze for Doxycycline stays until September 23, and we have free capsules nationwide at government health centers and hospitals,” said Secretary Herbosa. “Do not wait for symptoms to appear; consult a doctor or health center for prophylaxis within 24-48 hours after first wading through flood waters,” added the Health Chief.