Number of dengue deaths in Calabarzon up

Based on the epidemiology report, the total number of dengue cases from January to June 30 this year was at 7,619 compared to the same period last year which was 6,053. (Shutterstock)

MANILA — The number of dengue deaths in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) Region doubled during the first half of the year, an official of the Department of Health (DOH) bared Monday.

DOH Calabarzon Regional Director Eduardo Janairo said they have so far recorded 46 dengue deaths in the first six months of the year, compared to the 23 deaths from January to June 30 last year.

Rizal province had the highest number of deaths with 18; followed by Cavite with 11 cases; Laguna, eight cases; Batangas, seven; and Quezon, two cases.

Based on the epidemiology report, the total number of dengue cases from January to June 30 this year was at 7,619 compared to the same period last year which was 6,053.

Saying that the number of increase was due to the cycle of dengue cases, Janairo said the administration of Dengvaxia to prevent the spread of dengue seemed ineffective and has not led to reduction of dengue incidents.

“So what’s the use of the vaccine?” Janairo said, adding he will only be convinced of the vaccine’s efficacy if it breaks the dengue cycle.

Meanwhile, Janairo shared with parents of Dengvaxia recipients the department’s action plans and reminded them how to protect their children against dengue-carrying mosquitos.

He said they will prioritize screening of schools, misting and spraying of areas where there are high numbers of dengue cases.

Calabarzon is one of the regions where the school-based vaccination for dengue was rolled out by DOH in 2016.

During a dialogue with the representatives of parents’ groups, National Federation of Dengvaxia Vaccinees Organization, Dr. Evamarie Torio, a focal person for Dengvaxia Taskforce, clarified that the number of deaths among Dengvaxia vaccines in Calabarzon since the vaccination took place 2016 have totaled to 46.

While there were suspicions that some of the deaths have something to do with the vaccine, these cannot be directly attributed to Dengvaxia, health officials said.