THE Department of Health (DOH) yesterday said over 7,500 influenza-like illness (ILI) cases have been recorded across the country amid the shifting weather in recent weeks.
The DOH said the 7,578 ILI cases that reported nationwide from January 1 to 20 were “38% lower” compared to 12,160 ILI cases reported in the same period last year.
On a per week basis, the health department said the number is showing a downward trend.
There were 3,932 ILI cases from January 7 to 20, or “46% lower compared to the previous two weeks of Dec. 24, 2023 to Jan. 6, 2024 at 7,340 cases,” said the DOH.
ILI is defined by the World Health Organization as an acute respiratory infection with onset within the past 10 days, presenting with cough, sore throat, and a measured temperature of 38 degrees and higher.
The most common detected causes of ILI in the Philippines are Influenza (A and B), SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), and human rhinovirus (common cold).
Despite the downward trend, the DOH urged the public anew to get vaccinated with the latest vaccines for flu to prevent ILI.
“The respiratory precautions of cough etiquette, hand washing, good ventilation, and staying at home when will do help,” added the DOH. — Gerard Naval
