The Department of Health (DOH) in the Caraga Region (DOH-13) has observed a consistent decrease in the number of dengue cases in the area. Data collected by the Philippine News Agency revealed that this decline was evident during the periods of April 27-May 10, May 11-May 24, and May 25-June 7. Specifically, dengue cases in the region decreased from 248 in the April 27-May 10 period to 210 from May 11-24, and further dropped to 81 from May 25-June 7.

Despite the recent downward trend, DOH-13 reported a total of 4,472 dengue cases recorded in the region from January to June 7.

Among the provinces, Surigao del Sur showed the most significant decrease in dengue cases, falling from 60 in the April 27-May 10 period to 37 from May 11-24, and further dropping to 17 from May 25-June 7. Among the cities, Bislig City recorded a substantial decrease in the same period, from 11 cases to five, then to just one. Tandag City also saw a reduction from 11 cases to eight, and then down to three.

In an interview on Friday, June 13, Niel Nituda, the coordinator of the Vector Borne Disease Program of DOH-13, attributed the reduction in cases to intensified campaigns. Nituda stated that the agency, in collaboration with local government units, will persist in its efforts to locate and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and encourage residents to practice self-protection measures against dengue. He also advised residents in the region to seek early consultation if they experience common signs of dengue infection.

As of June 7, the province of Agusan del Sur had the highest number of dengue infections with 931 cases, followed by Surigao del Sur with 819, Surigao del Norte with 697, Agusan del Norte with 331, and Dinagat Islands with 285. In the cities, Butuan City and Surigao City both reported 392 cases, Cabadbaran City and Tandag City both with 222 cases, Bislig City with 128, and Bayugan City with 53. (PNA)