The rainy season has brought more than just relief from the summer heat — it has also fueled a rise in dengue infections across the country.
The Department of Health (DOH) reported that cases in January and February 2025 were up by as much as 40 percent compared to the same period last year.
Peak transmission typically occurs from June to November, when the population of dengue-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes is at its highest. However, health experts warn that dengue has become a year-round threat, making prevention and preparedness crucial.
Serious financial impact on households
Beyond the health risks, dengue can have a serious financial impact on households. Aside from the costs of hospitalization and medication, patients and caregivers often face lost income during recovery.
Financial service providers have responded to the rising health concern by offering targeted insurance products.
For instance, BDO Insure, part of the BDO Group, has introduced dengue coverage starting at P350 annually, which provides P10,000 in cash assistance upon diagnosis.
A P700 plan doubles the benefit to P20,000, which can be used for medical bills, recovery costs, or income replacement.
Coverage is available for individuals, family members, and even non-relatives, with a limit of one policy per person.
Accessible, affordable protection
The company says the goal is to make financial protection against dengue accessible and affordable, especially as outbreaks continue to strain public health systems.
Health authorities continue to urge the public to maintain clean surroundings, eliminate mosquito breeding sites, and seek immediate medical attention when symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, and muscle pain occur.
