DOH: Flu-like cases in PH rise 35%

MANILA, Philippines, October 29 ------ Cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) nationwide rose by 35 percent, following the usual seasonal pattern during the rainy months, the Department of Health (DOH) said.

The DOH recorded 13,321 cases from Sept. 24 to Oct. 7, up from 9,896 cases reported from Sept. 10 to 23, according to its latest Ulat ng Ahensya report. Health Secretary Edwin Mercado attributed the increase to cooler weather and social gatherings that can spread respiratory infections. “Cases tend to rise during colder weather as people gather in close quarters. This is also the season when many celebrations take place,” he said in an interview with Super Radyo dzBB on Oct. 26.

The DOH said the increase follows the usual seasonal pattern observed during the rainy months. The department has flagged 15 provinces and highly urbanized cities across seven regions for heightened surveillance. Mimaropa, Western Visayas and Central Visayas recorded the highest percentage increases in ILI cases.

Despite the recent uptick, the cumulative number of ILI cases nationwide stood at 130,591, down 20 percent from the 163,304 recorded during the same period last year. The case fatality rate remained below 1 percent, according to the DOH. To curb further transmission, the DOH said it is strengthening preventive health measures, including distributing information materials on proper hand hygiene and encouraging people with respiratory symptoms to wear face masks.

It also urged the public to consult nearby YAKAP clinics and health centers and encouraged influenza vaccination, particularly among vulnerable and high-risk groups. The World Health Organization defines ILI as an acute respiratory infection marked by a measured fever of at least 38 degrees Celsius and a cough, with symptoms beginning within the past 10 days. This definition is used for disease surveillance and does not necessarily indicate an influenza infection, as other respiratory illnesses can cause similar symptoms.

Source: inquirer.net