Philippines declares national dengue epidemic

Health authorities declared a national dengue epidemic after over 100,000 cases and 622 deaths from January to July. The declaration allows local governments to access funds to combat the outbreak. Efforts include campaigns to destroy mosquito breeding sites. Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infection, causes symptoms like joint pain, high fevers, and rashes. Severe cases can lead to breathing problems and organ failure. There is no specific treatment, but maintaining fluid levels is critical. A vaccine, Dengvaxia, was banned in the Philippines after several deaths during a 2017 immunization campaign.

What did health authorities declare regarding dengue on Tuesday?

How many dengue cases were reported from January to July this year?

What measures will local government units take to combat the dengue outbreak?

What are some symptoms of the dengue virus?

What happened to the existing vaccine called demvaxia in the Philippines?