Philippines declares epidemic after dengue fever kills more than 600

An outbreak of dengue fever in the Philippines has been declared a national epidemic after causing hundreds of deaths this year.

The country has recorded 146,062 cases of dengue from January through to 20 July this year, 98% more than the same period in 2018, the department of health said. The outbreak has claimed the lives of 622 people.

The declaration of an epidemic means local governments will be able to draw on emergency central funds to improve their response to the outbreak.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection found in tropical countries worldwide. It can cause joint pain, nausea, vomiting and a rash, and can cause breathing problems, haemorrhaging and organ failure in severe cases. While there is no specific treatment for the illness, medical care to maintain a person’s fluid levels is seen as critical.

Via The Guardian /BBC