Pangasinan Reports Rise in Dengue Cases and Deaths in 2023

MALASIQUI: Health officials in Pangasinan are calling on residents to promptly seek medical attention for symptoms of dengue fever, following a significant rise in cases and deaths in the province in 2023. This increase has raised concerns and prompted heightened health measures.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangasinan experienced a 12 percent increase in dengue cases last year, with 3,308 instances reported, compared to 2,956 cases in 2022. The majority of these cases were recorded during the peak rainy season, spanning from August to October.

A concerning aspect of the outbreak was the increase in fatalities due to dengue. Twenty-one deaths were recorded in 2023, a substantial rise from the nine deaths in the previous year. The age range of the deceased varied significantly, with the youngest being eight months old and the oldest aged 69 years.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Cielo Almoite, in a recent interview, noted that many of the fatalities were in the late stages of dengue and had been referred to hospitals belatedly. Dr. Almoite reassured indigent patients about hospital bills, highlighting that they could access benefits under the Universal Health Care law.

To better manage the situation, the 14 provincial government-run hospitals in Pangasinan have established dengue fast lanes for the immediate treatment of patients showing symptoms of the disease. Furthermore, Dr. Almoite emphasized that the PHO is intensifying its community advocacy efforts. These efforts focus on the implementation of the “4S” strategy against dengue, which includes destroying mosquito-breeding sites, securing self-protection measures, seeking early consultation, and supporting fogging or spraying in areas with clustered cases.