Dengue Cases in Iloilo Surge by 78%

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Dengue cases in Iloilo province have surged by 78%, with the Provincial Health Office (PHO) reporting 705 cases from Jan. 1 to Feb. 22, 2025.

This marks a significant increase from the 395 cases recorded during the same period last year.

The spike in infections has resulted in five fatalities, raising concerns among health officials and prompting intensified efforts to curb the spread of the mosquito-borne disease.

All 42 municipalities and one component city in the province have reported dengue cases, with Leon recording the highest at 42, followed by Oton (41) and San Joaquin (38).

Other areas with notable case numbers include:

-Dumangas – 36 cases

-Cabatuan – 34 cases

-Lambunao – 31 cases

-San Dionisio – 31 cases

-Janiuay – 22 cases

-Tigbauan – 22 cases

-Banate – 21 cases

The PHO has also identified 16 villages across 10 municipalities with clustering of dengue cases, defined as three or more cases reported within a four-week period.

Children aged 1 to 9 remain the most affected, with 263 cases, followed by teenagers aged 10 to 19 with 240 cases.

The figures also indicate a slight gender disparity, with 363 cases in males and 342 in females.

In response to the rising number of infections, the PHO continues to implement its 4S strategy:

-Search and Destroy mosquito breeding sites

-Self-Protection Measures such as using insect repellents

-Seek Early Consultation for symptoms

-Support Fogging in areas with high case concentrations

Health officials urge the public to stay vigilant and seek immediate medical care for dengue symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, rash, nausea, and bleeding gums to prevent complications.

Patients can avail themselves of free consultations and treatment at all district and government hospitals in the province, as mandated by an executive order from Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.

Additionally, PhilHealth covers up to PHP19,500 for dengue treatment and PHP47,000 for severe cases.

Residents are also encouraged to participate in the “Alas Kwatro Kontra Mosquito” campaign, which promotes eliminating mosquito breeding sites every Monday at 4 p.m.