Dengue cases in Region 1 have risen this 2025, with nearly 6,000 suspected cases recorded as of August 2, 2025, according to the Center for Health Development (CHD).

From January 1 to August 2, 2025, health authorities logged 5,959 suspected dengue cases, a 56 percent increase compared to 3,805 cases in the same period last year.

At least 678 cases were reported in just one week, from July 28 to August 2. Deaths linked to suspected dengue have also climbed to 23.

Michael Sabangan of Barangay Guilig in Mangaldan said he takes extra steps to protect his children, especially since his wife works abroad. He ensures their yard is clean, strengthens his children’s immunity, and applies mosquito repellent daily.

“Malinis dapat talaga sa bahay ‘yung mga tubig na naiipon dapat nililinis din, mabuti pa matanda ang tamaan pero kung bata mahirap,” he said.

Health officials warned that more cases may emerge in the coming weeks due to recent heavy rains.

“Ang tinitignan natin ay ang incubation period ng dengue ay mga 2 weeks after makagat ng lamok, so kung after ng mga pag-ulan pini-predict natin na baka hanggang mid-August or late August makikita natin ‘yung maaaring pagtaas ng kaso ng dengue,” Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson of CHD-1, said.

Symptoms of dengue include flu-like fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, dizziness, vomiting, swollen glands, and skin rashes.

The CHD said dengue fast lanes are activated in all public hospitals in the region. The public is urged to avoid self-medication and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.