DOH advises the public to be cautious amid hike in weather-induced diseases

The Department of Health (DOH) called on the public to practice proper hygiene and sanitation to lower the risk of getting weather-induced diseases as the country experience increased rainfall and thunderstorms.

The department noted an upward trend in cases of Influenza-like illnesses (ILI), Leptospirosis, and Dengue.

From January 5 to 18, 2025, ILI cases doubled to 5,150 from the 2,388 cases recorded from December 22, 2024 to January 4, 2025. 

“The DOH was informed by the Philippine Embassy in Japan of an advisory reminding Filipinos to take precautions with the rise of influenza cases,” the DOH said in a statement.

“In the last week of December 2024, Japan reported a high level of influenza cases, however, cases started to decline in January 2025. There has been no current report of a flu outbreak in neighboring southeast Asian nations.”

Leptospirosis cases

Leptospirosis cases rose to 422 which is an 8% increase from the 392 cases logged last year.

Hence, the DOH advised the public to seek medical attention if exposed to floodwater even without wounds or broken skin as symptoms may appear up to 30 days later.

Dengue cases

There are currently 28, 234 Dengue cases as of February 1. This reflects the increase in cases in which at least 15,088 Dengue patients were recorded from January 5 to 18, which is an 8% jump from the 13,980 cases from December 22, 2024 to January 4, 2025.

The Health department noted a decrease in the case fatality rate (CFR) with only 0.35% logged as of February 1 compared to the 0.42% CFR in the same period last year.

“The DOH continues to remind the public to seek early consultation, search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, use self-protection by applying anti-repellant lotions and wearing long sleeves and pants when possible, and support fogging in hotspot areas,” the department said.

“The public is also advised to practice proper handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces in public places,” it added.

The shear line and easterlies are currently bringing scattered rains and thunderstorms in various parts of the country. — BAP, GMA Integrated News