Despite a record global peak of five million cases and more than five thousand deaths last year, the Department of Health reported a decrease in dengue cases and deaths in the Philippines from last year. This can be attributed to the drier rainy season in recent years. History, with studies confirming the link between low rainfall and decreased mosquito-borne diseases.
However, despite the decrease in the number of cases during the total year, the occurrence of dengue in the first quarter of 2023 reached alarming levels, representing a 94% increase compared to the volume recorded at the same time in 2022. This increase is worrisome because the first quarter is generally characterized by dry weather, which historically records a decrease in dengue cases compared to the peak of the rainy season.
This year, with increased rainfall, which favors mosquito breeding, the threat of dengue transmission is also increasing.
In reaction to last year’s alarming dengue numbers, the national and local governments have taken steps to combat the dengue outbreak.
In April 2023, the Department of Health (DOH) called on citizens to be vigilant and adhere to the government’s 5S program: search for and destroy mosquito breeding sites, take self-protection measures, seek early consultations, fog and spray in sensitive areas. and maintain hydration.
Despite the implementation of the 5S strategy, which has contributed to an overall alleviation in the number of dengue-related cases and deaths, much remains to be done. Although the 5S strategy focuses on getting rid of mosquito breeding sites, it does not directly address the prevention and treatment of the disease itself. This highlights the need for comprehensive measures including vector control, effective diagnosis, treatment and public awareness campaigns.
It is very important to invest in studies and advances in new prevention methods, such as vaccines, and to strengthen health systems to ensure adequate and timely cure of dengue cases.
A recent second-generation dengue vaccine, which has been approved for use in more than 30 countries and has not yet been introduced in the Philippines, has shown increased efficacy in preventing dengue. The arrival of this second-generation vaccine could potentially be a significant breakthrough. a step forward in the fight against dengue in the Philippines.
Dr. Lulu Bravo, president of Immunization Partners Asia Pacific (IPAP) and executive director of the Philippine Immunization Foundation, said the advent of the second-generation dengue vaccine has sparked new discussions about dengue prevention.
“While all preventive measures are essential, they have their limits. Recent studies have revealed that mosquitoes in several Asian countries have undergone mutations that make them immune to the chemicals used to eliminate them. Other demanding situations in the region are the elimination of hatcheries in spaces where the water source is not reliable, since citizens depend on open water boxes to buy water,” Bravo said in a recent interview with BioPharmaAPAC.
“Therefore, it is very important to adopt a holistic technique that includes appropriate communication strategies, vector control and vaccination. Recently, in the Philippines, many physicians, as well as pediatricians, have highlighted the role of vaccines along with other dengue control measures, such as vector and diagnostic vaccines, in achieving 0 mortality by 2030,” he added.