14/04/2024
Regional News
Iloilo, Aklan report highest cases as dengue surges in WV
Iloilo and Aklan provinces logged the most number of dengue cases in Western Visayas so far this year, data from the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 showed.
From January 1 to April 6, Iloilo recorded 654 cases with two fatalities, while Aklan listed 370 cases and one death.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that presents with severe flu-like symptoms and can lead to death in severe cases.
Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, nausea or persistent vomiting, muscle and joint pain, swollen glands, pain behind the eyes, and red spots or patches on the skin.
for other areas in the region are as follows:
* Antique – 180
* Capiz – 300
* Guimaras – 93
* Negros Occidental – 294
* Bacolod City – 56
* Iloilo City – 177
As of now, the total number of dengue cases in Western Visayas has reached 2,124 for the year, an increase of 11 percent from the 1,920 cases reported in the same period in 2023.
There have been three deaths region-wide, with no new fatalities reported since April 6, 2024.
In response DOH-6 has expanded its dengue prevention strategy from the traditional 4S approach to a 5S approach.
The enhanced strategy includes searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, self-protection measures such as wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellent, seeking early treatment, supporting fogging or spraying in hotspot areas, and the new addition, “sustain hydration,” which advises ongoing consumption of oral rehydration solutions as recommended by physicians.
DOH noted an increased attack rate of dengue in several provinces including Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, and Guimaras.
Additionally, 24 barangays in the region have experienced clustering of dengue cases, with three or more cases reported in four consecutive weeks.
The age range of those affected spans from under one year to 98 years old, with a median age of 17 years. Children aged one to 10 years constitute 42 percent of the total dengue cases this year./PN
