Department of Health confirmed dengue epidemic in the country due to the 140, 000 cases from January 1 – July 2019.

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It is an estimated 95% increase of cases compared to the same time frame last year.

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On the other hand, the number of recorded deaths lowered to .4% from .5% of 2018.

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“It is still not something we should be glad about,” Dr. Nap Arevalo, Department of Health Disease Prevention and Control Bureau reiterated.

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DOH pointed out that the environment, urbanization, climate change and improper water systems are the leading factors on having a dengue epidemic.

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“The agent here is really the environment,” Arevalo stated.

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It is also clarified that virus transmission is only through the bite of infected mosquito and it can happen anytime of the day.

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Due to this epidemic, hospitals nationwide started Dengue Fast Lanes which are activated if the number of cases in their area increase.

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The said lane offers an immediate service navigated by assigned specialists for faster medications.

 

However, the department also clarified that dengue has no certain cure and just self-limiting of the patients.

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“Wala siyang gamot, kailangan lang ng supportive management like fluids,” Arevalo explained.

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He added that keeping the patients hydrated and having a balanced food intake are some of the important concerns.