With more Filipinos reporting symptoms like cough, colds, fever and fatigue, tips on preventing and managing influenza-like illnesses are making rounds online.
This comes after the Department of Education suspended face-to-face classes in Metro Manila public schools earlier this week due to the increasing number of flu-related cases among students and teachers.
The Medical City (TMC) on Tuesday, October 14, shared tips on how the public can help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, especially in high-risk areas such as hospitals, clinics, and health centers.
The hospital advised people to wear face masks at all times, wash their hands with soap or alcohol, cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, and maintain distance from others if they are experiencing symptoms.
They also recommended staying at home when feeling unwell and getting an annual flu vaccine.
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) also shared possible causes of coughs and colds, which may include bacterial or viral infections, allergic reactions, or symptoms of more serious conditions such as infections in the lungs or airways.
The PRC advised those experiencing coughs and colds to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food to avoid weakness.
It also reminded the public to consult a doctor, visit the nearest barangay health center, or call their hotline at 143 if medical help is needed.
The Marikina City Health Office also shared information on the symptoms of influenza-like illness, how it spreads, what to do if infected and ways to prevent transmission.
The Department of Health (DOH) said there have been fewer recorded flu-like illness cases this year compared to the same period in 2024.
DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo reported that from January to September 27, the country logged 121,716 cases of influenza-like illness, around 8% lower than the 132,538 cases recorded during the same period last year.
“At the national level, the number of influenza-like illnesses is lower than last year thus far. It is sound precaution for local and institutional health authorities to practice preventive measures to keep the numbers down,” Domingo said on Monday, October 13.
— with reports by Philstar.com/Cristina Chi
