Flu-like illnesses seeing uptick, says DOH

THERE has been an increase in cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) in the past three to four weeks “consistent with the ongoing rainy season,” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa in a statement.

The Department of Health (DOH) said 9,491 cases were recorded from July 28 to August 10, or 55 percent higher compared to the 6,124 cases reported from July 14 to 27.

All regions, except the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), “have shown an increase in ILI cases in the recent four weeks,” Herbosa said.

A total of 102,216 ILI cases have been recorded from January 1 to August 24.

With heavy rains continuously affecting the country, the DOH urged the public to take proactive measures against Influenza-like Illnesses.

It said the public must always eat well, stay active, get vaccinated, wash and clean hands often, and wear face masks properly when sick or in crowded areas.