The number of dengue cases reported in Negros Oriental this year saw a decline from last year despite 2025 being an “epidemic year,” an official said yesterday.

Dr. Liland Estacion, Provincial Health Office (PHO) chief, in an interview, said this is a welcome development considering that in previous years, the trend was a rise in dengue cases by the middle of the year.

Estacion attributed this to the late onset of the rainy season, which is just starting in June, the active participation of different sectors down to the barangay level against dengue, and relentless public awareness drives.

PHO recorded from January 1 to July 5 this year a total of 1,115 cases with one death, which is 24 percent lower compared to the same period last year with 1,463 cases and four deaths.

Age cases ranged from one month to 92 years, affecting mostly the age group of one to 10 years (38 percent).

Majority of the cases were male (51 percent).

Of the province’s 25 municipalities/cities, the Top 10 with the highest dengue cases for this year are Siaton (138), Tanjay City (116), Mabinay (111), Dumaguete City (97), Bayawan City (91), Guihulngan City (74), Bais City (65), Sibulan (49), Canlaon City (38), and Manjuyod (29).

The rest had fewer cases, with San Jose town having the least 13.

Estacion called on the public not to be complacent and let their guard down, especially as the rainy season has started.

Health authorities are undertaking preventive measures such as the eradication of mosquito breeding places, the distribution of chemically-treated (impregnated) mosquito nets and curtains, and misting when necessary.

The schools are also participating in anti-dengue efforts, such as cleanliness drives like the Brigada Eskwela, Estacion said. (PNA)