Dengue Cases Skyrocket in Negros Occidental Province in Philippines Over the First Two Weeks of 2025
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jan 29, 2025 23 hours, 6 minutes ago
Medical News: Alarming Rise in Dengue Cases
Health officials in Negros Occidental, a province in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, are raising concerns over a dramatic increase in dengue fever cases in the early weeks of 2025. Reports from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) indicate that from January 1 to 18, a total of 250 cases were recorded, marking a staggering 297% surge compared to only 63 cases in the same period last year. Tragically, two individuals have already lost their lives to the mosquito-borne illness.
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Dengue Cases Skyrocket in Negros Occidental Province in Philippines Over the First Two Weeks of 2025
The highest number of dengue cases has been reported in Bago City with 58 infections, followed by San Carlos City with 20, Kabankalan City with 19, Pulupandan with 15, Silay City with 13, Valladolid with 11, and La Carlota City with 10. This article highlights the growing concerns of health authorities who fear that if immediate preventive measures are not implemented, the numbers could rise even further.
The Growing Threat of Dengue
Dengue fever, a disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, has long been a health concern in the Philippines. The virus, which has four distinct serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4), can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild fever to severe hemorrhagic manifestations. The most common signs of dengue include sudden high fever, intense headache, pain behind the eyes, severe joint and muscle pain, skin rashes, and mild bleeding such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding.
While many cases of dengue are mild, severe forms of the disease - Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS) - pose a significant risk. DHF typically progresses through three phases: an initial febrile stage, a critical phase where plasma leakage occurs, and a convalescent phase marked by recovery. If not detected and managed early, this could lead to severe complications, including shock, organ failure, and even death.
Response from Health Authorities
In response to the spike in cases, the Provincial Health Office, in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH), has intensified efforts to contain the outbreak. Health Undersecretary Mary Ann Palermo-Maestral described the situation as "very alarming," emphasizing the need for immediate and coordinated action to prevent further fatalities. Hospitals across the province have been advised to reactivate "dengue fast lanes" to ensure prompt medical attention for suspected cases.
Local government units have been urged to strengthen dengue awareness campaigns and promote the "4 o’clock habit," a daily routine encouraging communities to clean their surroundings and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. Barangays have also been instructed to conduct widespread clean-up drives, particularly targeting stagnant water sources where Aedes mosquitoes thrive.
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Lessons from the Past
The current surge in dengue cases comes after a similarly concerning trend in 2024, during which Negros Occidental recorded 6,799 cases - an increase of 354.48% from the previous year. Officials warn that without proactive intervention, history may repeat itself. In 2024, dengue claimed 22 lives in the province, underscoring the urgency of addressing the outbreak before it worsens.
The City Health Office (CHO) of Bacolod, the provincial capital, also noted a rising trend, with 22 dengue cases recorded as of January 11. The CHO attributes the increase to frequent rainfall, which creates favorable breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
Prevention and Treatment
Health experts stress that the best way to combat dengue is through prevention. The most effective strategies include eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellents, and installing protective screens or nets in homes. Community-wide efforts, such as fumigation and larvicide application, may also help reduce mosquito populations.
For those experiencing symptoms, medical professionals advise against taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding. Instead, patients should stay hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond two days. Early detection and proper medical care can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.
Conclusion
The recent surge in dengue cases in Negros Occidental is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by this mosquito-borne disease. With 250 infections and two fatalities already recorded within just a few weeks, health authorities are working tirelessly to curb its spread. Public cooperation is crucial in this fight - through community engagement, hygiene practices, and timely medical intervention, the number of dengue cases can be controlled.
Officials continue to stress the importance of awareness and proactive measures to prevent a full-scale epidemic. By implementing long-term prevention strategies and maintaining public vigilance, the province can mitigate the devastating impact of dengue.
For the latest Dengue News, keep on logging to Thailand
Medical News.
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