Metro Manila, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has observed a slight increase in reported dengue cases with the onset of rains.

The agency said it is encouraging the public and authorities to eliminate stagnant water and their containers to destroy mosquito breeding grounds.

In a statement on July 1, the DOH said there were 6,082 reported cases from May 19 to June 1, a 10% increase from 5,547 cases during the May 5 to May 18 period.

The case count from June 2 to June 15 was 4,689, but the DOH expects this to rise with the late reporting.

The Philippines recorded 77,867 infections from Jan. 1 to June 15, or 15% higher than the 67,576 listed in the same period last year, official data showed.

It also logged 205 deaths this year.

The Health Department advised the public to carry out self-protection measures against mosquito bites and consult a doctor for symptoms.