• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Provincial Health Office yesterday reported a 258 percent increase in influenza-like illnesses in Negros Occidental, for the period from January to December 2 this year.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, however, said the situation remains manageable.
PHO records showed cases of influenza-like illnesses rose to 2,211, from 616 cases in 2022.
Influenza-like illness is a nonspecific respiratory illness characterized by fever, fatigue, cough, and other symptoms that stop within a few days.
Pinongan attributed the increase of influenza-like cases to the cold season.
She pointed out that these illnesses are not COVID-19 cases, but advised the public to wear masks, especially in enclosed areas.
Pinongan advised individuals to avoid close contact with persons who have cough, fever, and flu.
Isabela town logged the most number of cases at 1,680, with San Carlos City ranked second with 129.
Candoni and Hinobaan posted zero cases, the PHO report added.
While Negros Occidental has no COVID-19 admissions in public hospitals, Pinongan, however said there are admissions of COVID-19 cases in private hospitals.*
