THE Department of Health (DOH) yesterday assured that dengue cases in the country remain manageable despite the torrential rains brought about by the onset of the rainy season.

Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje made the assurance despite the reported outbreak declared in Zamboanga City.

“Yes… manageable ang cases,” she said.

Cabotaje added that the country recorded 22,277 dengue cases from January to April, 15 percent lower compared to the cases recorded during the same period last year.

She also reported that 13 percent of the cases were from Central Luzon, another 13 percent from Central Visayas and 10 percent from the National Capital Region.

Meanwhile, 126 individuals have died due to dengue nationwide.

But despite the assurance, the health official advised the public to search and destroy breeding places such as flower vases, to wear protective clothing and to seek early consultation.

“Seek early consultation, importante ‘yan ano? ‘Wag mo sabihin nag fe-fever ka COVID ‘yan. And kung…marami-rami ang cases sa isang area, i-support natin ‘yung fogging and spraying in hotspot areas,” she said.

Cabotaje said the agency has also advised health facilities to prepare for an increase in admissions, especially among children.

Meanwhile, authorities have declared a dengue outbreak in Zamboanga City.

The outbreak was declared after confirmed dengue cases in the city reached over 2,000 from January to May 14, 2022.

Of the confirmed cases, 19 had already perished.

Fogging operations have been intensified in the city by the Sanitary Division of the City Health Office in areas where there were high number of dengue cases.

According to the DOH-Region IX, dengue cases are also high in Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur and Isabela City in Basilan. By LEE ANN P. DUCUSIN