The Department of Health (DoH) clarified Saturday that there is no flu outbreak in the country despite a recent rise in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases.
Assistant Secretary Dr. Albert Domingo said the increase is part of the usual flu season. Based on the latest DoH data, ILI cases rose by 5 percent — from 10,265 in early September to 10,740 as of 11 October 2025.
“We don’t have an outbreak, we don’t have new causes of this influenza-like illness,” Domingo said in Filipino.
He explained that ILI cases are caused by influenza A, rhinovirus (the common cold), and enterovirus, which often affects children. Most recorded cases involve patients aged 5 to 14, based on data from 4,991 DoH disease reporting units.
Domingo said ILI refers to a group of illnesses with similar symptoms, including fever, cough, colds, and body pain. Some recent cases, he noted, may also be linked to seasonal allergies, as the northeast monsoon is expected to start this week.
He added that influenza-like illnesses are common even before the pandemic.
“We have cultural references that remind us that in cold seasons, we already have remedies and solutions,” he said, citing local traditions such as eating porridge or drinking ginger tea.
“Those soups and warm drinks help ease sore throat and nasal congestion,” Domingo said.
According to him, ILI can be treated through proper hydration. Antiviral medication is available for children and elderly patients with weaker immune systems.
The DoH reminded the public that frequent handwashing, adequate rest and eating vegetables can help prevent influenza-like illness, especially during the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days period when large crowds are expected.