Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Monday its assistance to nine local government units (LGUs) across Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and the National Capital Region (NCR) following a significant increase in dengue cases.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo highlighted in a radio interview that Quezon City is one of the Metro Manila LGUs experiencing a surge in dengue cases. The Quezon City government declared a dengue outbreak after recording 1,769 cases from January 1 to February 14, marking an almost 200 percent increase compared to the same period last year. At least 10 dengue-related deaths have been documented, eight of whom were minors.

Nationwide, the DOH reported 28,234 dengue cases from January 1 to February 1, reflecting a 40-percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. Domingo noted the unusual early onset of rains, not typical of the rainy season, contributing to mosquito breeding conditions. The behavior of mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus has varied due to climate change.

Domingo advised the public to take preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using mosquito repellent, and eliminating mosquito breeding grounds. Dengue symptoms include a high-grade fever ranging from 39 to 40°C, occurring four to 10 days after a mosquito bite. He emphasized the importance of vigilance when fever subsides after four or five days, as this may be followed by warning signs like gum bleeding, rashes, and changes in stool color, indicating an advanced stage of the disease.

The DOH's Centers for Health Development, through their Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Units (RESU), continue to advise their counterparts at the LGU level regarding dengue cases. According to the DOH, only an LGU official can declare a local dengue outbreak, as per the law. Domingo clarified that declaring an outbreak signifies an unusual increase in cases beyond the expected number for a particular period, not necessarily a disaster.