Manila, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday assured the public that there is no outbreak of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in the country, saying the current uptick in flu cases is part of the normal seasonal trend during the colder months.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa explained that the rise in cases typically occurs during the “-ber” months, which coincide with the Philippines’ flu season.
“This is our flu season. Cases of influenza-like illnesses naturally increase during this time. There’s no outbreak—it’s the usual seasonal flu,” Herbosa said in an interview with Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.
He noted that ILI refers to a range of illnesses showing symptoms such as cough, colds, fever, sore throat, and body aches caused by various viruses, including rhinovirus and influenza A and B — unlike COVID-19, which is caused by a single virus.
The health chief emphasized that the country has not reached the threshold to declare an outbreak or epidemic and urged the public not to panic despite reports of rising flu-related absences in schools.
According to DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo, around 121,716 ILI cases were recorded from January to September 2025 — an 8 percent decrease from the 135,538 cases logged in the same period last year.
The clarification came after the Department of Education – National Capital Region (DepEd NCR) suspended face-to-face classes in all public schools in Metro Manila, citing increased reports of flu-like symptoms among students and staff.
Herbosa acknowledged that the move could help reduce transmission but said it should have been coordinated with health authorities.
“Suspending classes can help minimize the spread, but coordination with the DOH is important to avoid unnecessary alarm,” he said.
He added that other factors, such as building inspections following recent earthquakes and school sanitization efforts, were also cited as reasons for the class suspension — actions the DOH fully supports.
Herbosa also noted a rise in sales of common flu medicines like paracetamol and decongestants, consistent with the seasonal increase in flu cases.
He reminded the public that the same preventive measures practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic remain effective against ILI:
- Wash hands regularly
- Stay home when sick
- Wear masks when symptomatic
- Avoid sharing food and utensils
- Keep indoor spaces well-ventilated
For those who are healthy, he advised maintaining good nutrition, taking vitamin C, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and getting sufficient rest.
“Flu season comes with the rainy months. When people stay indoors in poorly ventilated spaces, viruses spread more easily,” he said.
The DOH continues to monitor ILI cases nationwide and reaffirmed that the situation is under control. /Via PNA
