Flu-like cases slightly dipped in November, DOH says

The number of reported influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) cases in the country slightly decreased in the first half of November even as the weather started getting cooler.

Latest data by the Department of Health (DOH) showed that ILI cases nationwide went down from 7,971 from October 20-November 2 to 7,571 from November 3-16. 

Further decline was observed from November 17 to 30 with 3,710 cases, but the DOH said this may still fluctuate due to delayed consultations and reporting. 

Since the year started up to November 30, a total of 165,992 ILI cases have been logged, which was 17% lower than the 200,525 cases reported during the same period in 2023. 

However, despite the overall nationwide decline, the DOH noted that the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Bicol Region, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have reported an increase in ILI cases.

The new cases in these regions were at 1,445 from November 3 to 30. 

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa earlier said that cases of respiratory infections such as common cough and colds, and even COVID-19 may increase now that the weather is getting cooler amid the Northeast Monsoon or “Amihan” season.

Herbosa encouraged the public to use face masks properly, observe cough etiquette, and stay at home when experiencing symptoms. He also advised families to get flu vaccinations to protect themselves against ILIs. 

On November 19, state weather bureau PAGASA announced colder weather in the coming months may be expected as the Northeast Monsoon or “Amihan” season has finally arrived.

State meteorologists said that the Northeast Monsoon will bring cold and dry air to most parts of the country.

--VAL, GMA Integrated News