ILOILO — Dengue cases in Iloilo province plunged by 66 percent in the first quarter of 2026, but health officials remain on alert after two deaths were recorded, prompting intensified prevention measures and incentives for dengue-free communities.
Data from the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) showed 432 dengue cases with two deaths from January 4 to April 4, 2026 — significantly lower than the 1,269 cases and seven deaths reported in the same period last year.
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, particularly the Aedes aegypti.
Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, and, in severe cases, bleeding and difficulty breathing.
Health authorities said the disease can be prevented by eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, using mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and seeking early treatment when symptoms appear.
The fatalities this year involved a 50-year-old female from Dingle who died on February 20 and a 14-year-old male from Ajuy who died on March 29 after being hospitalized.
“The good news is there is a 66% reduction compared to the previous period sang 2025,” said IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares–Quiñon.
Despite the decline, Quiñon said the provincial government under Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. is sustaining its anti-dengue campaign, emphasizing the “4S strategy” — search and destroy breeding sites, self-protection, early consultation, and support for fogging.
She noted a shift to a more aggressive response following updated guidelines from the Department of Health (DOH).
Previously, fogging was conducted only when cases surged in a barangay. Now, spraying is immediately carried out in the home of a confirmed dengue patient, followed by repeat spraying after three days in nearby houses, and again after seven days.
At the same time, the province is pushing barangays to aim for zero dengue cases, with possible financial incentives.
In 2025, the provincial government recognized 483 barangays for achieving dengue-free status.
Cabatuan recorded the highest number of cases this year with 61, followed by Calinog (48), Maasin (19), Passi City (17), Oton (17), Dumangas (16), Janiuay (16), Lambunao (14), Tigbauan (14), and Ajuy (12 cases with one death).
All 43 municipalities, including Passi City, have reported dengue cases this year, underscoring the need for sustained vigilance despite the overall decline./PN
