For a long time, dengue was long associated with the rainy season in the Philippines. However, this mosquito-borne viral infection is now a year-round problem.
In the latest episode of Health Matters, host Doc Tong Untalan sat down with returning guest medical expert Dr. Bernard Demot, an infectious disease specialist at the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), to talk about why dengue is becoming more persistent, more dangerous, and what we can do about it.
Dr. Demot explained that dengue is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti mosquito. These mosquitoes thrive in clean, stagnant water, often found in containers like discarded tires, flowerpots, and uncovered water tanks or receptacles.
Unlike malaria-carrying mosquitoes that bite at night, Aedes mosquitoes are active during daylight hours, so they’re harder to avoid.
Dengue used to be most common during the rainy months, when water pooling becomes widespread. But with shifting weather patterns and warming temperatures due to climate change, urban crowding, poor waste management, and changes in mosquito breeding habits, dengue cases are now being reported throughout the year.
“The weather pattern has changed,” Dr. Demot said. “We’re seeing cases rise even during traditionally dry months. It’s become a year-long threat.”
There are four known serotypes of the dengue virus (DEN-1 to DEN-4). A person can be infected with one type and recover, but subsequent infections with different serotypes increase the risk of severe illness. This explains why some individuals get more serious symptoms the second or third time around.
Common symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain (sometimes referred to as “breakbone fever”), nausea, vomiting, and rashes.
What makes dengue particularly dangerous are its warning signs: abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or from the nose, blood in the stool or vomit, and sudden fatigue or restlessness. These may indicate dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, both of which can be fatal without immediate medical care.
Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. The condition is managed with supportive care: rest, fluid intake or hydration, and the use of fever-reducing medications. However, Dr. Demot stressed the importance of avoiding NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, as these can increase the risk of bleeding. Paracetamol is the safer option for fever and pain relief.
So, how do we protect ourselves and our communities?
Prevention starts at home. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by regularly cleaning containers that hold water, covering water storage bins, and ensuring that gutters are not clogged. Use screens on windows, wear lighter colored protective clothing, and apply mosquito repellent—especially during the day. You can also use an electric fan to drive away and minimize the presence of mosquitoes in your home. Use mosquito nets at night in the bedroom if your home is not screened.
On a larger scale, community cooperation in waste management, fogging during outbreaks, and public health education are key to keeping mosquito populations under control.
Dr. Demot also pointed out that certain groups are more vulnerable to severe dengue, including children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, overweight or obese individuals, and those with repeated infections.
Awareness, early detection, and quick medical attention are essential for recovery.
While vaccines for dengue exist, access remains limited, and their use is still being studied for wider rollout. For now, Dr. Demot says the best approach is to stay informed, maintain a clean environment, and act fast when symptoms appear.
Want to know more about how to protect your family from other health concerns?
Tune in to Health Matters every Saturday at 9 AM on the official Baguio Chronicle Facebook page.
Catch up on past episodes and watch full interviews on the Baguio Chronicle’s YouTube channel.
Stay alert. Stay safe. Stay healthy.
