CHO: No cause for alarm over spike in flu-like illnesses

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City Health Office (CHO) has assured the public that there is no cause for alarm over the rising cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in the National Capital Region, noting such trends are typical during colder months.

“It is just that it has increased because this last quarter of 2025, last quarter of the year, we are going to consider the cold seasons where the flu is very common,” said CHO head Dr. Mary Ann Diaz on Tuesday.

“Maybe it increases, but the number is not alarming, and we cannot consider it an outbreak. It is expected that it will increase,” she added.

Department of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa also clarified there is no outbreak of ILI in the country, saying the uptick is consistent with seasonal flu trends.

As of October 18, CHO recorded two ILI cases, both of whom have recovered, though Diaz did not disclose when the cases were reported.

In the same period in 2024, the city recorded nine cases.

“This is a big decline from the previous case and even if we check the attack rate, we have a 78% decrease,” Diaz said.

She explained that influenza is a specific viral infection caused by the influenza virus, marked by symptoms like high fever, body aches, sore throat, cough, and respiratory issues.

ILI, by contrast, is a broader clinical diagnosis describing symptoms similar to influenza, such as fever and cough or sore throat, but it may be caused by various respiratory viruses or conditions.

She said a confirmed influenza diagnosis requires laboratory testing, while ILI is based on symptom observation without confirming the viral cause.

Diaz emphasized the importance of vaccination and health precautions in reducing illness risk.

“We are not saying that 100% you will not be infected, but at least your immunity is high and you have protection against these illnesses,” she said.

She advised residents with flu-like symptoms to stay home, rest, stay hydrated, and take fever medication as needed.

She also urged schools to consider online or alternative learning if several students become ill and to disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as tables and doorknobs.