Dengue cases in Central Visayas up by 5 percent

CEBU, Philippines — Central Visayas recorded a five percent increase in dengue cases compared to the same period last year, with 5,880 cases reported from January to June 14, 2025, according to the Department of Health - Central Visayas for Health Development (DOH-7).

But Dr. Ronald Jarvik Buscato, head of the DOH-7 Communicable Diseases Section, clarified that this year’s tally is five percent lower than three years ago.

Buscato said that while no scientific evidence has been established, historical data suggests dengue outbreaks tend to spike every three years, with the last major surge occurring in 2022.

“Mas higher ang chances [of outbreaks] every three years based sa atoang records,” he said. “No scientific evidence yet [we’re] just talking about plain data.”

As of June 14, the region has recorded 10 dengue-related deaths—half the number reported in the same period last year, which had 20 deaths.

Cebu province tops cases

Cebu Province logged the highest number of dengue cases at 2,934, or about 60 percent of the regional total. This was followed by Bohol with 1,272 cases.

Among highly urbanized cities, Cebu City reported 999 cases, followed by Lapu-Lapu City with 377 and Mandaue City with 288.

Of the 10 deaths, five were from Cebu Province, three from Bohol, and one from Lapu-Lapu City. Cebu City reported no dengue-related deaths.

Although DOH-7 data showed only one death in Mandaue City, an earlier report by The Freeman citing local health office figures said there were two fatalities.

Talisay City recorded the highest number of cases among the region’s top ten municipalities and cities with 223 cases, accounting for four percent of the regional total. This was followed by Argao (179), Danao City (174), and Talibon (166).

Three localities among the top ten also recorded one death each: Danao City, Liloan, and Minglanilla.

More males were affected by dengue, comprising 3,115 or 53 percent of the total cases, while females accounted for 2,765 or 47 percent.

Children remain the most vulnerable, particularly those aged 6 to 10 years old, with 1,470 cases or 25 percent of the total. This was followed by age groups 1-5 years (1,352 cases), 11-15 (878), and below 1 year (148). Adults aged 21 and above also made up 25 percent of cases, with 1,465 recorded.

Buscato emphasized that while current figures are not at outbreak levels, the public must remain vigilant.

“With the trend now, dili ni siya pang outbreak level, but it doesn't mean mag kompyansa ta,” he warned. “Every year, there’s a possibility g’yud nga mag outbreak.”

With the onset of the rainy season, he stressed the need for heightened household prevention efforts, as standing water during this period can increase mosquito breeding.

“Knowing dengue, naa lay usa kabuok kaso nga napaakan og lamok nga naay kagaw, paspas kaayo ang spread,” Buscato explained.

To counter this, DOH-7 has intensified its Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) campaign to boost public awareness and preventive practices.

The health department also promotes the “4 p.m. habit,” which involves checking and eliminating stagnant water in household items such as flower vases or stored water containers, particularly those left undisturbed for over seven days.

“Prevention really starts at home,” Buscato said.

He also advised the public to seek medical consultation immediately if symptoms such as fever persist for at least 48 hours. — Reynan Monleon and Gwyneth Lynn Geonzon, CNU Journalism Interns (FREEMAN)