MANILA, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) -- Local authorities declared a dengue outbreak in Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines following 12 confirmed deaths and 1,241 reported cases, according to local media reports on Tuesday.
The city health office said mosquito density had exceeded safety thresholds by up to 12 times, creating conditions for intensified dengue transmission. Authorities said cases have continued to rise across 39 communities.
Health officials urged residents to intensify cleanliness and sanitation efforts and follow dengue prevention measures to help contain the outbreak, according to the reports.
Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral disease spread by Aedes mosquitoes, is common in the Philippines, especially during the rainy season from June to October. Severe cases can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever or shock syndrome, which may be fatal if untreated. ■