Negros Occidental dengue cases drop 26% in 2025

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Dengue cases in Negros Occidental declined significantly in 2025, but health authorities cautioned that the mosquito-borne disease remains a serious public health concern after seven deaths were recorded during the year.

Data released Friday by the Provincial Health Office showed 5,349 suspected dengue cases from Jan. 1 to Dec. 27, 2025, or morbidity week 52, reflecting a 26.22% decrease from the 7,250 cases reported over the same period in 2024.

Despite the overall decline, all 31 local government units in Negros Occidental reported at least one suspected dengue case, underscoring the continued presence of the disease across the province.

Bago City recorded the highest number of cases with 1,140 suspected infections and one death.

It was followed by La Carlota City with 479 cases and no fatalities, and Talisay City with 478 cases, also without deaths.

San Carlos City logged 295 cases and one death, while Kabankalan City reported 257 cases and three deaths, the highest number of dengue-related fatalities among local government units.

Other areas included Silay City with 254 cases and one death, Cauayan with 198 cases and no deaths, and Hinigaran with 165 cases and one death.

La Castellana reported 156 cases, while Himamaylan City recorded 151 cases, both without fatalities.

Provincial Health Office data showed dengue infections across all age groups, ranging from infants to seniors as old as 94 years.

Children aged 1 to 10 years old accounted for the largest proportion of cases, making them the most vulnerable group, according to health officials.

While the decline in cases is considered a positive development, authorities urged the public not to be complacent amid persistent transmission risks.

They stressed the need for sustained preventive measures, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellents and seeking early medical consultation at the first signs of dengue to prevent severe illness and deaths.