OUTBREAK RISK PERSISTS: Iloilo Records 105 Dengue Cases in Two Weeks

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has reported 105 dengue cases from January 1 to 11 during the second morbidity week, reflecting a 19% increase compared to the 88 cases recorded during the same period last year.

Of the total, 82 cases were recorded between January 4 and 11, with children and teenagers aged 1 to 19 years being the most affected demographic. Males slightly outnumber females among the reported cases.

San Joaquin registered the highest number of cases with 10, followed by Leon with eight, and Estancia with seven.

Barotac Viejo and Cabatuan each recorded six cases, while Ajuy, Oton, Guimbal, Janiuay, and Passi City reported five cases each.

The municipalities of Barotac Viejo and Estancia were flagged for clustering, with three cases each in Barangays Rizal and Bulaqueña, respectively.

Clustering is defined as three or more cases within a four-week period in a specific area.

“In 2024, Iloilo experienced a significant dengue outbreak, with over 11,800 reported cases and 32 deaths, prompting the PHO to declare an outbreak in August, followed by a state of calamity declaration,” said Dr. Rodney Labis, chief of the IPHO Health Service Delivery Division.

While response measures like the Department of Health’s 4S strategy helped reduce the number of cases and fatalities last year, dengue incidence remains above outbreak levels.

Labis attributed the spike in cases to intermittent rainfall, which creates stagnant water ideal for mosquito breeding.

Holiday activities also disrupted the implementation of the 4S strategy: searching and destroying mosquito breeding sites, self-protection with repellents and clothing, seeking early consultation for symptoms, and supporting fogging in outbreak areas.

In response, the PHO urged Local Government Units (LGUs) to activate their Kontra Dengue programs.

The public is encouraged to participate in cleanup drives, use window screens, and seek immediate medical attention for symptoms such as persistent fever, body pain, and rashes.

Iloilo officials remain vigilant as the risk of a dengue outbreak persists.