Iloilo: Dengue cases in the province have already reached 3,462, including 13 deaths from Jan. 1 until July 26 this year. Dr. Rodney Labis, head of the health service delivery division of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO), noted that the cases are 8.5 percent lower compared with the same reporting period in 2024, which recorded 3,783 cases and six deaths.
According to Philippines News Agency, the 13 deaths will undergo review by the dengue death review committee of the Iloilo Provincial Health Board to determine if dengue was indeed the cause and to address any gaps contributing to the mortality rate to prevent similar occurrences. Among the recent fatalities was a 32-year-old woman from the town of Concepcion, who passed away on July 24.
New dengue cases were reported in several towns: Oton with 24, Janiuay with 20, Barotac Nuevo with 13, Leon with 12, and Dumangas with 11. Oton reported the highest number of cases, totaling 252, with one death, ranking it highest among the local government units within Iloilo province. Dr. Labis indicated that the disease has impacted all age groups, predominantly affecting those aged 1-9 and 10-19.
The number of barangays experiencing a clustering of cases rose to 73, marking a six percent increase compared to 69 barangays the previous week. Dr. Labis emphasized the ongoing rise in dengue cases and the associated risk of fatalities, urging the public to adhere to the Department of Health's 4S strategy. This strategy includes searching for and destroying mosquito breeding sites, securing self-protection from bites, seeking early consultation for dengue symptoms, and supporting fogging or spraying in hotspot areas.
Dr. Labis also called on the community to participate in the province's cleanup campaign every Monday at 4 p.m. He mentioned the availability of free dengue test kits in almost all health centers and advised seeking consultation when signs and symptoms of the disease manifest. Lastly, he encouraged local government units to sustain their efforts, especially in barangays with clustering of cases.
