Dengue cases decline in Iloilo, public urged to stay alert

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Dengue cases in Iloilo province have shown a steady decline, according to recent data from the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO). However, health officials continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance as the rainy season persists.

Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon, head of the IPHO, reported that while the province has recorded 23 total deaths and 8,775 cases as of September 14, there has been a notable drop in weekly cases.

“From September 8 to 14, 416 new cases were reported. However, many were late reports, with only 135 being recent cases. This marks a significant improvement compared to August, when weekly cases exceeded 1,000,” Quiñon said.

Passi City leads the top 10 local government units (LGUs) in Iloilo with 613 dengue cases, followed by Oton (500), Calinog (382), Leon (363), and Dingle (358). Other areas with high case numbers include Barotac Nuevo (340), Janiuay (336), Dumangas (325), Lambunao (284), and Sta. Barbara (270).

Of the 23 dengue-related deaths in the province, four occurred in Barotac Nuevo, while Passi City, Miagao, Badiangan, Igbaras, and Concepcion each reported two deaths. The remaining fatalities were in Calinog, Dingle, Sta. Barbara, Lambunao, San Dionisio, Sara, Banate, Estancia, and Guimbal.

Compared to the same period last year, the province saw a 622% increase in dengue cases, up from 1,216 cases in 2023.

Despite the overall high numbers, Dr. Quiñon noted that the downward trend in dengue cases is evident across various LGUs, with only 243 barangays currently affected.

“Our data, including the two-week growth rate computations, show that cases are dropping significantly, and many towns are now registering negative growth. This positive development is a result of everyone’s cooperation,” she added.

Quiñon extended her gratitude to those involved in the anti-dengue advocacy campaign and urged the public to remain vigilant, especially with the rainy season still ongoing.

She also reiterated the importance of following the Department of Health’s (DOH) “4S” strategy: Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation, and Support fogging or spraying in hotspot areas.