Dengue deaths in Negros Occidental reach 23 amid 4,208 cases

BACOLOD CITY — Dengue fatalities in Negros Occidental have reached 23, with confirmed infections totaling 4,208 as of mid-October, the Provincial Health Office announced Thursday. Data covering January 4 through October 17 show the province grappling with a sustained dengue outbreak that continues to claim lives across the region.

Despite the ongoing fatalities, health officials noted a marked improvement in case numbers compared to the previous year. The current figure represents a 17.57 percent decrease, equivalent to 879 fewer cases than the 5,105 infections recorded during the identical period in 2023.

The decline suggests that public health measures and community awareness campaigns may be yielding results, though provincial health authorities have not detailed specific interventions credited with the reduction. Officials continue monitoring the situation closely as the region heads toward the year's final months, when dengue transmission typically remains elevated.

The Provincial Health Office has not announced additional preventive measures or resource allocations in response to the current caseload, leaving questions about preparedness for potential seasonal increases in the coming weeks.