Eleven barangays in Iloilo City have recorded clustering of dengue cases, prompting the City Health Office (CHO) to intensify prevention efforts and urge residents to seek medical attention immediately once symptoms appear.

The clustering means that a barangay has recorded at least three dengue cases within four consecutive weeks, according to the Iloilo City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (ICESU).

ICESU representative Marlou Avanceña identified the affected barangays as Concepcion Montes and Veterans Village in City Proper; Divinagracia and Caingin in La Paz; Zamora in City Proper; Mansaya in Lapuz; San Isidro and Tabuc Suba in Jaro; Rizal Pala-Pala I; Lapuz Sur; and San Pedro in Molo.

Avanceña said early consultation is crucial to prevent dengue from progressing to severe stages and reduce the risk of complications.

“Indi ta na paghulaton nga maglala ang ginabatyag sang isa ka tawo, bata man o tigulang kag amo pa na pagdala sa doktor. Ang dengue ya, kun earlier, mas ma-avoid ang possible nga complications nga dala sini,” he said.

Avanceña noted that most of the dengue-related deaths recorded in the city involved patients whose condition had already progressed to the severe stage.

From January 4 to August 22, 2026, the city recorded 288 dengue cases, including three deaths, according to the CHO.

Beyond early consultation, Avanceña said the city’s dengue prevention campaign continues to focus on eliminating mosquito breeding sites, practicing self-protection measures, conducting misting activities, and maintaining adequate hydration.

The CHO is also conducting “pulong-pulong” or community-based dengue awareness sessions in barangays, alongside social media campaigns to reach more residents with prevention and health information.

Residents are reminded to regularly inspect their homes and surroundings for stagnant water, including containers, flower vases and other potential breeding sites where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Avanceña stressed that dengue should not be regarded solely as a seasonal disease.

“Ang dengue indi lang sa tiempo sang tig-ululan, whole year may record kita sang dengue nga gina-report sa aton opisina,” he said.

With dengue cases being reported throughout the year, health authorities are urging residents to make prevention a regular household practice and to seek medical care early rather than wait for symptoms to worsen.IMT