DOH issues caution on flu-like cases

Metro Manila, Philippines - Influenza-like illnesses are on the decline, but the public should remain cautious during the cold northeast monsoon or amihan, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Wednesday, Jan. 8.

The DOH reported 179,227 cases of influenza-like illnesses nationwide as of Dec. 31, which was 17% lower than the 216,786 in the same period last year.

In its data, there were 7,299 infections on Nov. 20 to Dec. 3, 6,470 on Dec. 4 to 17, and 3,443 on Dec. 18 to 31.

“Ang pagbabang ito ay maaaring maiugnay sa mas mabuting pag-uugali at gawi sa paghahanap ng kalusugan at mas mahusay na paghahanda ng sektor ng kalusugan,” the DOH explained.

[Translation: The decline can be attributed to better health behavior and better preparations of the health sector.]

Top causes for flu-like infections were rhinovirus, enterovirus, influenza A, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenovirus.

The DOH said human metapneumovirus (hMPV) was the sixth cause. Health authorities detect hMPV as part of an extended panel, when a specimen tested negative for influenza, RSV, or COVID-19.

“Ang hMPV ay paminsan-minsang nakikita, na walang kakaibang clustering o pattern, sa buong taon,” the DOH said.

[Translation: The hMPV is rarely seen, with no unique clustering or pattern in the whole year.]

“Hindi rin malala ang kanyang sintomas. Tulad ng karaniwang ubo at sipon, gumagaling siya ng kusa basta malakas ang ating resistensya,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said.

[Translation: Its symptoms are not severe. Like with a common cough or cold, infected individuals heal on their own as long as their immune system is strong.]

In the northern hemisphere, the World Health Organization saw a rising trend in influenza cases, including those caused by hMPV and RSV, as expected during the winter season.

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“Binigyang diin ng DOH na ang panahon ng amihan ay maaaring humantong sa pagtaas ng mga kondisyon sa paghinga tulad ng allergy o respiratory infections,” the DOH said.

[Translation: The DOH underscores that during the amihan, respiratory conditions such as allergies or respiratory infections may rise.]

The DOH reminded the public to observe proper respiratory etiquette like covering the mouth when coughing, staying at home when experiencing cough, cold, or fever, and frequent handwashing.