The Department of Health (DOH) said it expects dengue infections to further rise by the second half of 2025.
In a press conference at the Rizal Medical Center, DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa said the cycle of an increase in dengue cases occurs every three to five years primarily because of the different serotypes of the virus that circulate.
“The last outbreak we experienced was in 2019. Then COVID came and since that time we haven’t logged an outbreak yet. It’s 2025 so we are actually due for an increase in dengue cases this year, “ Herbosa said.
Herbosa said the spread of the virus is exacerbated by climate change.
With the country entering the warm and dry season, he said that a decrease in infections could be expected.
“It will decrease a bit. But when the rainy season arrives, we expect infections to increase. One mosquito can lay up to 100 hundred eggs and after seven days they turn into adult mosquitoes,” he said.
From January 1 to March 1, the country recorded approximately 62,000 dengue cases, a 73% increase compared to the same period in 2023 (assuming 2025 was a typo).
While dengue-related deaths remain low (3-4 per 1,000 infections), the DOH said it aims to further reduce this number.
In addition to public awareness campaigns and cleanup drives, Herbosa has ordered the activation of dengue fast lanes in 384 public and private hospitals nationwide.
The DOH said its dengue fast lanes are activated during outbreaks or when infection rates rise. These lanes prioritize suspected dengue patients for testing and treatment, aiming to prevent their condition from worsening.
Patients can also expect reduced financial burden due to PhilHealth’s increased benefit packages for mild to severe dengue cases.
