DOH logs 8% rise in flu-like illnesses; vaccines to roll out next week

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The Department of Health (DOH) recorded an increase in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases this week and will begin rolling out influenza vaccines next week, Health Secretary Edwin Mercado said Sunday.

Mercado said the DOH recorded 11,137 ILI cases last week, an 8% increase from the 10,278 cases recorded during the September 3-16 period.

“There were 11,137 cases recorded last week, compared with 10,278 cases from September 3 to 16,” Mercado told Super Radyo dzBB.

However, Mercado said the cumulative number of cases from January through last week remained lower than the total recorded during the same period in 2025.

According to the World Health Organization, influenza-like illness is a clinical syndrome characterized by symptoms such as fever and cough, and can be caused by various respiratory pathogens.

Mercado said respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as contact with contaminated surfaces, can contribute to the spread of respiratory infections.

“Cases tend to rise during colder weather as people gather in close quarters. This is also the season when many celebrations take place,” he said.

Mercado said the DOH would roll out influenza vaccines next week, prioritizing vulnerable sectors.— MCG, GMA News

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