Health experts raised concern over the rising threat of flu and its high medical cost for many Filipino families.

Dr. Maria Cristina Ignacio-Alberto of the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV) urged the public, especially seniors and those with health conditions, to get vaccinated early.

Ignacio-Alberto stressed that 70 percent of flu hospitalizations and 85 percent of flu-related deaths are among older adults, often due to a lack of awareness and delayed diagnoses.

“Flu is not a simple cold. Cases spike during the rainy season and are a serious threat, especially for older adults with chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes,” she continued.

“That’s why being proactive with vaccination remains the most effective and cost-effective way to protect against severe illness,” she added.

Ignacio-Alberto also highlighted the economic impact of the flu, mentioning that a single flu-related hospital stay can cost families anywhere from P10,000 to P30,000, often paid out of pocket.

“That’s a big blow to families with limited income and those who cannot afford to take time off work. This disruption adds another layer of stress for families but also creates a ripple effect on our economy,” she said.

Despite this, she pointed out that immunization coverage still remains below optimal levels in the country.

“We can’t wait for flu season to peak before acting. Vaccination efforts must begin early to ensure more Filipinos are protected before infections surge,” Ignacio-Alberto added.

She urged Filipinos to protect themselves and others by getting flu shots early and consulting healthcare providers about other recommended vaccines, such as for pneumococcal disease and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Building on this call, the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) is advocating for lifelong immunization through its campaign, IBA ang BAKUNADO.

The initiative emphasizes the importance of timely, science-based vaccination at all life stages, from childhood to old age, to protect individuals, families, and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases.

“Vaccination should be a national priority. Through our IBA ang BAKUNADO campaign, we call on all sectors to work together in strengthening the healthcare system and improving vaccine access nationwide, helping build a healthier, more resilient country,” said Teodoro Padilla, Executive Director of PHAP.

Ignacio-Alberto and PHAP concluded that protecting communities from the flu and other vaccine-preventable diseases requires a comprehensive societal approach.

This approach involves providing timely vaccines, shielding families from out-of-pocket costs, maintaining workforce productivity, and reducing the economic burden on households and the healthcare system.