Central Visayas’ flu-like cases breach 15,000 in October

Local

CENTRAL Visayas recorded one of the highest percentage increases in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases nationwide in the first half of October.

This as infections across the country rose by 31 percent, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

In Region 7, the DOH recorded 15,042 ILI cases from Oct. 1 to 14, up from 11,517 cases during the preceding two weeks, or Sept. 17 to 30.

Western Visayas and Mimaropa (Region 4-B) also posted the highest percentage increases among the regions.

Despite the recent rise, cumulative ILI cases reached 139,013 as of Oct. 28, down 19 percent from the 171,506 cases recorded during the same period last year.

The case fatality rate remained at 0.06 percent.

The DOH placed 17 provinces and highly urbanized cities across 10 regions under heightened surveillance for localized increases, with most of the areas located in the National Capital Region.

The agency said the increase follows a normal seasonal trend during the “ber” months and the onset of cooler weather, and does not indicate an outbreak.

In an advisory, DOH-Central Visayas explained that influenza spreads through small particles released by infected individuals when they cough, sneeze or speak.

The health agency urged people with flu symptoms to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, wash their hands regularly with soap and water, and stay home to prevent transmission.

It also advised the public to practice proper cough etiquette and hand hygiene, wear face masks when experiencing respiratory symptoms, and seek early medical consultation if symptoms persist.

They likewise encouraged senior citizens and other vulnerable groups to get vaccinated against influenza.

DOH-7 reminded residents that they could visit their YAKAP clinics for regular check-ups, necessary laboratory tests and other health services.

Those who need medicines may also access them through PhilHealth GAMOT facilities.

Meanwhile, leptospirosis cases declined by 54 percent to 554 from Oct. 1 to 14, compared with 1,198 cases during the preceding two weeks.

However, the cumulative tally reached 14,016 as of Oct. 28, 44 percent higher than the 9,707 cases recorded during the same period last year.

The disease's case fatality rate dropped to 5.46 percent from 10.24 percent in 2025.

The DOH monitored five provinces and highly urbanized cities across five regions for increased leptospirosis cases. It said it continues to track the situation to determine whether the decline will be sustained.

Dengue cases, meanwhile, rose by 6 percent to 23,842 from Oct. 1 to 14, up from 22,575 during the previous two weeks.

Cumulative dengue cases reached 229,754 as of Oct. 28, down 17 percent from 275,685 during the same period last year.

The case fatality rate stood at 0.39 percent.

Although dengue cases have remained below epidemic thresholds nationwide since the start of the year, the DOH flagged 23 provinces and highly urbanized cities across 12 regions for localized increases or cases exceeding established thresholds.(MyTVCebu)