DOH: Flu-like cases surge due to rains

MANILA, Philippines — Cases of influenza-like illnesses or ILIs have increased in the past three to four weeks due to incessant rains, the Department of Health reported yesterday.

The DOH recorded 9,491 flu-like cases nationwide from July 28 to Aug. 10. The figure is 55 percent higher than the 6,124 cases logged from July 14 to 27.

“All regions except the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao have recorded an increase in flu-like cases over the past four weeks,” the DOH said in a statement.

Health officials advised the public to take precautionary measures against ILIs and other WILD (water and food-borne diseases such as influenza, leptospirosis and dengue).

These illnesses are common during the rainy season.

“As the rainy season continues, we encourage the public to take proactive steps against ILIs,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said. “Eat well, stay active and get vaccinated.”

The DOH also reminded the public to wash and clean hands often as well as wear face masks properly when sick or in crowded places, to safeguard everyone’s health.

“These measures protect us against many other illnesses. Let us keep our case counts low,” Herbosa said.

The DOH said the bidding process is ongoing for the procurement of flu vaccines to be distributed in public health centers.

ILIs are illnesses with common symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, colds, body aches and headaches.

Up to 102,216 cases of ILIs have been recorded nationwide from Jan. 1 to Aug. 24, which is 18 percent lower than the 125,153 cases posted during the same period last year.