DOH flags dengue surge in 9 LGUs, eyes more outbreaks

The Department of Health (DOH) is concerned about a significant rise in dengue cases in nine local government units (LGUs) across Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila, with eight more LGUs expected to declare an outbreak.

Quezon City was the first to declare a dengue outbreak, reporting 1,899 cases and 11 deaths, mostly minors, as of February 17.

Nationwide, the DOH recorded 28,384 dengue cases as of February 1, a 40% increase compared to the same period last year.

PhilHealth has tripled its coverage for severe dengue cases to P47,000 and nearly doubled coverage for mild cases to P19,500, effective November 1, 2024.

Infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante urged LGUs to disclose rising dengue cases and called for expedited approval of the new dengue vaccine, Qdenga.

Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo stated that severe dengue cases have not increased, and vaccine approval requires thorough study.