• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Dengue cases in Negros Occidental reached 5,108, including 15 deaths, from Jan. 1 to Oct. 19 this year.
The figures appeared to be “too high” with an increase of 301.89 percent, compared to the same period last year, which had only 1,271 cases.
The 10 local government units with the highest number of dengue cases are Bago City, 560; Hinobaan, 404; San Carlos City, 394; Sagay City, 331; Talisay City, 323; Kabankalan City, 321; Cauayan, 289; and Cadiz City, 279.
Dengue-related deaths also rose to 15, according to a report of the Provincial Health Office.
As of Oct. 5, the Bacolod City Health Office logged 1,802 dengue cases, with four fatalities.
Compared to 453 cases and three deaths for the same period last year, dengue cases this year have risen by 297.8 percent.
Dengue usually occurs during the peak season from July to October.
The top seven warning signs of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, skin rash, fatigue and weakness, and mild bleeding.
Dengue viruses are spread to people through the bites of infected Aedes species mosquitoes, according to the Department of Health. | GB
