The Department of Health (DOH) Assistant Secretary Dr. Albert Domingo on Saturday clarified that there is no outbreak in the country despite the recent increase in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases.

In a forum, Asec. Domingo reported that the latest DOH data show a slight uptick of 5 percent, from 10,265 cases recorded in the first part of September to 10,740 as of 11 October 2025.

According to Domingo, the trend being observed is still part of the flu season.

“We don’t have an outbreak; we don’t have new causes of this influenza-like illness,” Domingo said in Filipino.

He explained that the causes of ILI include influenza A, rhinovirus (the cause of the common cold), and enterovirus, which often causes stomach aches in children. Most of the recorded patients were children aged 5 to 14, based on data from 4,991 DOH disease recording units.

The DOH spokesperson added that ILI can result from various causes but presents similar symptoms, such as fever, cough, colds, and body pain. He also noted that some cases of colds and coughs are due to seasonal allergies, considering that the northeast monsoon is expected to start this week.

Influenza-like illness is not new, even before the pandemic, Domingo said, citing cultural references such as porridge and ginger tea as traditional remedies during cold weather.

“We have cultural references that remind us that during the cold season, we have remedies and solutions,” Domingo said in Filipino. “Soups and warm drinks help relieve symptoms such as sore throat and nasal congestion.”

According to Domingo, influenza-like illness can be managed through proper hydration. He added that antivirals are available for young children whose immune systems are not yet fully developed and for senior citizens.

The DOH reminded the public that proper handwashing, adequate rest, and eating vegetables can help prevent influenza-like illness, especially with cemetery visits expected during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.