By JEN BAYLON

The death toll from dengue in Negros Occidental has surged to 15, amid a significant increase in the number of cases, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported yesterday.

Based on PHO’s Morbidity Week No. 42 report, 5,108 dengue cases were recorded as of October 19, higher by 301.89 percent compared to 1,271 cases recorded in the same period in 2023.

The local government units that recorded the most number of dengue cases are Bago City, which reported 560 cases, followed by Hinoba-an town with 404 cases, and San Carlos City with 394.

Despite the high number of cases, the three LGUs have reported no deaths due to the water-borne disease.

Dengue cases were also recorded in Sagay City (with 331 cases), Talisay City (323 cases and one death), Kabankalan City (321 cases and one death), Cauayan town (289), Cadiz City (279 cases and one death), Silay City (276 cases and one death), and Sipalay City (273 cases and one death).

The age group most affected by dengue in Negros Occidental is 11 to 20 years old, with cases reported across an age range spanning from infants to 92 years old.

The PHO is urging residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to curb the rise of dengue cases.

These include eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, using protective clothing and applying mosquito repellents.

Health officials remind the public that early detection and proper medical care are critical in managing dengue cases, especially as the rainy season continues to increase the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the province./JB, WDJ