Dengue Prevention: A Filipino Doctor’s Tips to Keep Your Family Safe
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- Jun 9
- 5 min read
When the rainy season hits the Philippines, so does the risk of dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness that affects thousands of Filipinos every year. According to the Department of Health (DOH), dengue is one of the leading public health concerns in the country and the numbers are already climbing.
According to the DOH, 62,313 dengue cases have been recorded from January 1 to March 1, 2025, a 73% increase compared to the same period last year. The regions hit hardest include Calabarzon (12,735 cases), the National Capital Region (11,291), and Central Luzon (10,185).
But while the numbers are concerning, dengue is highly preventable with the right knowledge and habits. We spoke with Dr. Janin Baylen, a general practitioner at Doctor Anywhere, to ask about the best ways to protect our homes and families from dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
Search and Destroy: Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites
One of the most powerful things you can do to prevent dengue starts at home. Dr. Janin emphasizes that mosquito control is all about eliminating breeding sites.
“One of the most effective ways to make our homes mosquito-free is by searching and destroying breeding places,” says Dr. Janin. “This is done by removing freestanding water where mosquitoes lay eggs.”
Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, which can collect in the most unexpected places:
Buckets, old tires, and open containers
Pet water bowls
Tarpaulins or anything left out in the rain
Dish drainers and plant saucers
“Even pet bowls, if not checked and changed regularly, can serve as breeding grounds,” she adds.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also stress the importance of removing standing water. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, the main carrier of dengue virus, breeds in clean, stagnant water and is most active during early mornings and late afternoons. Regularly checking and cleaning your surroundings can significantly reduce mosquito populations.
Repel the Biters: Use the Right Products
With so many mosquito repellent products in the market such as sprays, lotions, patches, and even electric zappers, it’s hard to know what actually works. Dr. Janin breaks it down:
“Mosquito repellent sprays, lotions, or patches are effective. Of course, you have to make sure that the product contains DEET, citronella, or lemon eucalyptus,” she explains. “These are applied to exposed skin to prevent bites. Medyo pricey. So, a more economical way would also be to minimize the amount of exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and pants, making it harder for mosquitoes to land and bite.”
As for the electric mosquito zappers? “For electric zappers naman, they are not as effective because the mosquitoes causing dengue don’t really get attracted to the light.”
Myth-Busting: What NOT to Believe About Dengue
Despite all the information available today, many myths about dengue still circulate, some of which can be risky if taken seriously. We asked Dr. Janin to set the record straight.
Myth 1: "I’ve already had dengue, so I’m immune now."
“There are four known serotypes of dengue—dengue 1, 2, 3, and 4,” Dr. Janin explains.
“If you’ve been infected with, say, dengue 1, you’ll only have immunity to that serotype. You can still get infected by dengue 2, 3, or 4.”
And here’s the kicker: “A second infection with a different serotype can actually be more severe, so it’s important to monitor symptoms closely if that happens.”
Myth 2: "Dengue is contagious and can be passed from person to person."
“No, dengue does not spread through direct contact,” Dr. Janin clarifies.
“Talking to, eating with, or touching a person with dengue won’t give you the infection. You can only get dengue if you’re bitten by an infected mosquito.”
Myth 3: "Natural remedies like papaya leaf juice, goat’s milk, or crab soup can cure dengue."
“There’s no scientific evidence that these natural remedies can cure dengue,” she explains.
“They might help you feel better symptomatically or provide hydration, but they cannot replace proper medical care.”
Instead of relying on unproven remedies, it’s best to see a doctor and monitor platelet counts, especially in children and vulnerable individuals. Dengue symptoms can mimic the flu at first with high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash. If you or a loved one shows warning signs such as:
Persistent vomiting
Bleeding gums or nose
Abdominal pain
Fatigue or restlessness
Seek medical attention immediately. Contact emergency services or take the person to the nearest hospital.
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Sources:
1. Dr. Baylen, Janin Therese. Interviewed on 5 May 2025.
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