Dengue cases in NegOcc spike to 4,230

By: Dolly Yasa

Bacolod City – The Provincial Health Office (PHO) in Negros Occidental reported that the number of dengue cases in the province continues to spiral.

The PHO has recorded a total of 4,320 cases from January 1 to July 20, a 43 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Kabankalan City has the highest number of cases with 596 followed by Bago City with 337; San Carlos with 310; and Cauayan with 247.

The PHO also reported 27 dengue-related fatalities. However, they pointed out the number is 10 percent lower compared to the 30 deaths recorded last year.

Earlier, PHO head Dr. Ernell Tumimbang recommended the declaration of dengue outbreak in Kabankalan City, Bago City, Cauayan, Murcia, and Candoni.

The PHO also recommended a “state of calamity” in the province due to the rising number of dengue cases.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the province overall is still at an “alert” level, not an “epidemic.”

The governor also urged the public to continue cleaning their surroundings in order to control the spread of dengue fever.

Lacson has earlier issued an executive order declaring a heightened alert status.