- GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Dengue cases in Negros Occidental increased by 151.88 percent in almost eight months this year compared to the cases for the same period in 2023, a report of the Provincial Health Office (PHO.)
The PHO logged 2,408 dengue cases from January to Aug. 17, 2024, from only 956 cases last year, registering an increase of 1,452 cases or 151.88 percent.
PHO recorded six deaths.
Hinobaan ranked first among the 31 local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental with having the most number of dengue cases at 250, with nine other LGUs, including Sipalay City, Bago City, Kabankalan City, Talisay City, Silay City, Sagay City, San Carlos City, Cadiz City and Cauayan having three- digit cases as well.
Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, provincial health officer, noted that children aged one to 10 years old comprise the bulk of those hospitalized for dengue.
Meanwhile, highly-urbanized Bacolod City also recorded three deaths, from January to Aug. 10 this year.
The City Health Office logged 602 dengue cases, compared to 347 for the same period last year, registering an increase of 73.5 percent.
Dengue fever outbreaks often occur during the rainy season. | GB
