DOH Reports 17% Drop in Respiratory Illnesses

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

The Philippine Department of Health (DOH) reported a significant decrease in influenza-like illnesses, with 179,227 cases recorded as of December 31, 2024, marking a 17% reduction from the previous year’s 216,786 cases.

Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa said the country maintains strong surveillance of respiratory infections, including Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), which has recently gained global attention.

“hMPV is not a new virus. We’ve been able to identify it for a long time. Its symptoms are not severe. Like common colds and coughs, it heals on its own as long as our resistance is strong,” Herbosa said.

The decline in cases comes amid the ongoing Northeast Monsoon season, locally known as Amihan, which typically triggers an increase in respiratory conditions.

Data from the DOH Influenza-like Illness Surveillance System identified Rhinovirus as the leading cause of respiratory infections, accounting for 25.5% of positive samples (1,257 out of 4,921 cases).

Other major causative agents include Enterovirus (23.2%), Influenza A (21.8%), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (11.4%), and Adenovirus (10.7%).

The DOH reported that hMPV ranks sixth among identified respiratory pathogens in the Philippines, with 284 positive cases (5.8%) recorded from January 1 to December 21, 2024.

Recent surveillance data shows only 10 positive hMPV cases (2.9%) from December 1-21, 2024, indicating no unusual clustering or patterns.

The World Health Organization reported an increase in common acute respiratory infections, including RSV and hMPV, in its Disease Outbreak News dated January 7, 2025, particularly in China and other Northern Hemisphere countries.

Chinese health authorities have assured the WHO that their healthcare system remains stable, with no emergency declarations or responses implemented.

A typical hMPV infection presents mild symptoms including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and sore throat, though severe cases may develop into bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

The health department emphasized that persons with pre-existing lung conditions such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or emphysema face higher risks of developing severe symptoms.

“Strengthen your immune system! Remember TED – proper nutrition, Exercise, and Discipline in taking care of your body to boost resistance and prevent illness,” Herbosa added.

The DOH continues to advocate for respiratory etiquette, including covering coughs with elbows, staying home when sick, and frequent handwashing with soap and water.

While face masks remain voluntary, they are recommended for symptomatic individuals and those seeking additional protection against respiratory infections.

The reduced case numbers reflect improved health-seeking behaviors and better preparedness within the health sector, according to the DOH.