MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday warned that vector-borne diseases, particularly dengue, may rise in areas affected by Tropical Depression Basyang.
In a radio interview, the DOH reported 7,471 dengue cases recorded from January 4 to 24, 2026, compared with 25,652 cases during the same period last year—a 71 percent decrease.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said dengue cases tend to rise during the rainy season.
“Dengue is all year round, but rises during the rainy season. And in Visayas and Mindanao, it’s raining because of the typhoon. So now, the number of dengue patients may increase again,” said Herbosa.
The agency urged the public to take preventive measures, including eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed, proper garbage disposal, and using mosquito repellents and protective clothing.
