Philippines: Health officials report elevated dengue fever activity in General Santos City during 2021

Event

Filipino health officials have reported 503 cases of dengue fever in General Santos City through April 23. This is a roughly 40 percent increase compared to the 298 cases reported over a similar period in 2020. Most dengue fever cases are reported in Barangay Fatima (101 cases), followed by Calumpang (84 cases), and San Isidro (71 cases). This represents the most complete data available as of April 28.

Context

The risk of dengue fever infection in the Philippines is nationwide, and typically highest May-November; however, the risk is highest November-February along the eastern coast near the Philippine Sea. Health officials reported more than 83,100 cases of dengue fever nationwide during 2020, more than 420,400 cases in 2019, and more than 69,000 cases in 2018.

A dengue fever vaccine is available in some countries. The vaccine is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Infected mosquito bites transmit dengue fever. Symptoms of the disease include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated promptly.

Advice

If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.