ILOILO — Dengue infections in Iloilo Province have dropped by nearly 50 percent this year, a major public health gain that local officials say must not lead to complacency as the rainy season continues to fuel mosquito breeding.
Data from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) show that as of November 1, Iloilo logged 5,363 dengue cases and 20 deaths since January 1, a sharp decrease from 10,963 cases and 32 deaths recorded during the same period in 2024.
Despite the improvement, PHO chief Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon warned residents against relaxing anti-dengue measures, stressing that the fight is far from over.
“Please, let us not get tired of doing the 4S,” Dr. Quiñon said, emphasizing that regular inspection of possible mosquito habitats — not only outside but also inside homes — is key to preventing outbreaks.
“Dengue fever can lead to severe complications if not addressed timely,” she added, urging anyone with symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, eye pain, joint and muscle pain, and rash to seek medical attention immediately.
Severe dengue, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications and can even be fatal.
Hotspot towns identified
The PHO identified Oton as the most affected municipality with 397 cases and one death, followed by Janiuay (307), Dumangas (274, one death), San Joaquin (263), Leon (236), Calinog (208), and Cabatuan (197).
Pototan recorded 197 cases with two fatalities, while Lambunao reported 175 cases and one death.
Other areas with cases are Ajuy (155 cases), Tigbauan (155, one death), Carles (140, two deaths), Concepcion (134, two deaths), Balasan (111, three deaths), Estancia (107, one death), Barotac Viejo (150), Sara (135 cases, 1 death), Pavia (133), City of Passi (125 cases, 1 death), San Dionisio (118), Guimbal (110), Banate (108), Miag-ao (100 cases, 1 death), Dingle (92), Maasin (91 cases, 1 death), Badiangan (84), Santa Barbara (77), Dueñas (75 cases, 1 death), San Miguel (73), Alimodian (70), San Rafael (68 cases, 1 death), Mina (67), Igbaras (63), Batad (55), Zarraga (54), Anilao (52), Leganes (52), Lemery (48), Bingawan (47), San Enrique (45), Tubungan (32), and New Lucena (17).
PHO intensifies campaign
Health officials have reinforced the Department of Health’s 4S strategy — Search and destroy breeding sites, Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation, and Support fogging or spraying in hotspots.
“Public cooperation, especially in high-incidence municipalities, remains critical to stop dengue’s spread and prevent more lives from being lost,” the PHO stressed.
The agency is working closely with municipal governments to enhance disease surveillance, conduct barangay-level cleanup drives, and promote household participation in mosquito control.
Public vigilance still vital
Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, causes sudden high fever, headaches, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. While the decline in cases is encouraging, health authorities remind the public that dengue can easily surge again during prolonged rains and typhoon season.
“As Iloilo moves forward, maintaining vigilance against dengue remains a collective responsibility,” the PHO said. “Our goal is not only to reduce cases—but to save lives.”/PN
