Manila, September 12 (IANS). Dengue is becoming dangerous in the Philippines. The health department said on Thursday that cases of dengue are being reported continuously during the rainy season. The number of deaths due to this disease is also increasing.
From January to September 6 this year, 2,08,965 cases of dengue have been reported, which is 68 percent more than the same period last year. According to news agency Xinhua, 546 deaths were recorded during this period.
“We are seeing a seasonal increase in dengue cases,” Philippines Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said, assuring the public that the health department will continue to take necessary measures.
The health secretary stressed that “urgent and concrete action must be taken by all” to deal with the situation created by the rainy season. He said collective efforts are key to combating the spread of dengue.
Dengue is endemic in the Philippines. Waterborne infectious diseases including dengue usually peak during the rainy season from July to October due to changing conditions, flooding and accumulation of contaminated water.
Dengue mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, open containers, boxes around the house and certain plants, such as bananas.
–IANS
MK/AKJ
