Fast facts about dengue in PH

MANILA, Philippines — The rainy season is upon us, and unfortunately for parents, that usually translates to dengue season.

According to the World Health Organization, the incidence of dengue has risen 30-fold over the last 50 years and the Philippines has consistently been one of the top countries in the Western Pacific with the highest number of dengue incidence.

Last year, reported cases in the Philippines reached more than 169,000, a 59.5% increase in dengue incidence from the previous year. 

In fact, the numbers are still on the rise. Because of the strong El Niño that’s affecting the country right now, local experts are predicting a higher number of cases of dengue this year.

This is alarming news, especially for parents. As dengue is known to affect children and adults, children with their developing immune systems are most vulnerable to the disease.

So in the face of all these facts, what should a parent do?

Good thing there are a good number of preventative measures that are available these days. The first step is to get acquainted with the problem. Read up on the facts here. – Rappler.com