Influenza-like illness (ILI), or flu, has surged to 1,161 cases in Cagayan from January to October this year, prompting provincial health authorities to urge residents to stay vigilant and take precautions against the virus.
Nestor Santiago, Provincial Surveillance Officer of the Cagayan Provincial Health Office, said in a Monday (October 27) briefing that influenza-like illness is a contagious disease caused by various viruses or bacteria that infect the nose, throat, and lungs.
‘It is important to strengthen the immune system because this is the most effective defense against the spread of the disease, especially now that the weather is changing,’ he added.
Most cases were recorded in Tuguegarao City with 231, followed by Gonzaga (185), Solana (96), Peñablanca (77), Alcala (69), and Sta. Teresita (6). The majority of patients are children aged one to ten years old.
During the same period in 2024, only 988 flu cases were reported, marking an increase of 173 cases this year.
Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, shivering, muscle and joint pains, severe weakness, and vomiting, Santiago added.
‘The public is encouraged to immediately seek medical attention at the nearest health facility to avoid more serious complications,’ he said.
Health office personnel also reminded residents to avoid crowded areas and follow basic health protocols, such as washing hands, wearing face masks, covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and ensuring proper ventilation at home or in the office