DOH reports 17% increase in flu-like cases

MANILA, Philippines, November 12 ------ The number of influenza-like illness (ILI) cases in the country increased by 17 percent, according to the latest Ulat ng Ahensya report of the Department of Health.

From Oct. 4 to Oct. 17, the DOH recorded 15,122 ILI cases, up from the 12,929 cases reported between Sept. 20 and Oct. 3. Despite the recent increase, the cumulative number of cases remains lower than last year’s figures. From Jan. 4 to Oct. 31, the country recorded 142,246 ILI cases, 18 percent lower than the 173,364 cases reported during the same period in 2025.

The DOH said the recent increase was consistent with the historical seasonal pattern of ILI cases. The case fatality rate remained at 0.06 percent, according to the department. At the regional level, Western Visayas, Mimaropa and Central Visayas recorded the highest percentage increases in reported cases.

Meanwhile, 13 provinces and highly urbanized cities across 10 regions reported localized increases in ILI cases, most of which were in the National Capital Region. In light of the increase, the DOH urged the public to practice preventive measures, including covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing and staying home when experiencing flu-like symptoms to avoid spreading the illness.

The agency also reminded the public to ensure proper ventilation in indoor spaces. It encouraged vulnerable and high-risk groups to get vaccinated to reduce their risk of contracting the disease. The WHO classifies ILI as a respiratory infection characterized by a fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher and a cough, with symptoms developing within the previous 10 days. However, not all cases are caused by influenza, as other respiratory viruses may produce similar symptoms.

Source: inquirer.net