MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) is implementing measures to prevent the potential spread of dengue fever in schools ahead of the reopening date on June 16, 2025. This initiative aligns with the formal onset of the rainy season, which traditionally correlates with increased incidences of mosquito-borne diseases.

During the nationwide kickoff of Brigada Eskwela 2025 at Bacacay East Central School in Bacacay, Albay, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the significance of maintaining clean and well-kept school environments to deter mosquito breeding.

Herbosa highlighted dengue as a critical public health challenge impacting the youth in the Philippines.

He acknowledged the supportive role of educators in collaboration with the DOH, pointing out that many health challenges faced by the agency primarily revolve around the well-being of children.

Herbosa warned of a potential major dengue outbreak due to a spike in reported cases in the early part of the year, urging schools to prioritize cleanliness.

In Mandaue City, two dengue-related deaths have been reported from January 1 to May 25, 2025, marking an increase compared to the previous year.

The victims, a five-year-old and a 15-year-old boy, were among a total of 257 dengue cases documented this year, which reflects an upward trend from 231 cases in the same period last year.

The top affected barangays include Canduman and Jagobiao, with local health authorities noting a shift in dengue's profile, indicating it is now a year-round concern rather than just a seasonal threat.

In response to rising dengue incidents, the Mandaue City Health Office (MCHO) has launched an awareness campaign and is training barangay midwives to educate residents on prevention measures.

The office has also activated dengue brigades that conduct regular cleanup drives and inspections to identify mosquito breeding sites.

Furthermore, the MCHO is implementing the DOH's '4S Strategy' which focuses on searching for and destroying mosquito breeding sites, securing self-protection through repellents and protective clothing, seeking early medical consultation for symptoms, and supporting fogging activities in high-risk areas.

Residents are being urged to remain vigilant, especially as the rainy season begins, with health officials stressing the importance of prompt intervention to avoid severe outcomes.

In addition to dengue concerns, the DOH's Health Secretary Herbosa has expressed alarm over other adolescent health issues, such as the rise in vaping and cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission.

Simultaneously, a separate health concern emerged in Siquijor where two individuals tested positive for melioidosis, a rare infectious disease causing complications.

Reported fatalities were among six cases linked to the disease in the province.

The Siquijor Provincial Health Office confirmed ongoing monitoring of infections while advising the public on hygiene practices during soil-related activities, as melioidosis can be contracted through soil exposure.

The health office reiterated the importance of addressing health risks associated with both dengue and melioidosis as part of broader public health strategies.