Cases of flu-like illnesses rise by 31% in two weeks – DOH

MANILA, Philippines – Cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) nationwide increased by 31 percent over two weeks, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

The DOH recorded 15,042 cases from Oct. 1 to Oct. 14, up from 11,517 cases reported from Sept. 10 to Sept. 23, based on its latest Ulat ng Ahensya report.

The department also flagged 17 provinces and highly urbanized cities across 10 regions for localized increases in ILI cases, with Metro Manila recording the most flagged areas.READ: DOH: Flu-like cases in PH rise 35%

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Western Visayas, Mimaropa and Central Visayas, meanwhile, recorded the highest percentage increases in cases among regions.

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Despite the recent uptick, cumulative ILI cases nationwide reached 139,013, down 19 percent from the 171,506 cases recorded during the same period last year.

The case fatality rate remained stable at 0.06 percent.

Vaccine rollout

To prevent severe illnesses and complications, the DOH said it is strengthening its vaccination efforts, particularly among vulnerable and high-risk groups.

In partnership with the Manila local government, the department administered free flu vaccines to vulnerable groups and senior citizens in Baseco, Manila, on Oct. 30.

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READ: Manila logs 2,692 flu-like cases this year amid 8% national rise

Of the 375,600 flu vaccine doses available for Metro Manila, 70,000 were allotted for the vaccination drive, the DOH said.

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More than 3 million additional doses are also expected to arrive to expand protection for other vulnerable groups nationwide.

The department said it would ensure vaccine recipients’ safety through counseling and post-vaccination monitoring and support. Health workers are also prepared to assist those who may experience side effects, which are rare and generally mild.

The DOH also urged the public to observe proper hygiene and encouraged those experiencing respiratory symptoms to wear face masks to help prevent the spread of infection.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies ILI as a respiratory infection involving a fever of at least 38 degrees Celsius and a cough, with symptoms developing within 10 days. The classification is used to monitor disease trends and does not mean all cases are caused by influenza, as other respiratory infections may produce similar symptoms. /jpv