Influenza may just start with cough, colds or fever, especially during the so-called “respiratory virus season” which runs from October to February, but infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante warns Filipinos not to play down the illness.
He stressed that while most of the patients who contract flu recover in five to seven days after getting enough rest, fluids, and medicines, “20 to 30 percent” of these eventually develop an infection in their lungs, which is pneumonia. Those who are more at risk of flu complications include infants, senior citizens, and those with existing health conditions.
“A weakened immune system fighting a strong virus leads to severe infection in the lower respiratory system, including the inflammation of the lungs. These patients admitted to the hospital need to be intubated because they already have difficulty in breathing and very low oxygen in the blood. Sometimes, because of severe pneumonia, these patients die,” Solante said.
Philippine Statistics Authority data shows pneumonia ranking fourth among the top causes of death in the country in 2023, killing 44,079, or 6.3 percent of the 694,821 registered deaths in the country that year.
Flu complications can also cause sepsis, which may lead to widespread organ failure and eventually death. Studies also suggest that patients with flu can develop heart complications, including heart attack, heart failure, and death.
“Based on experience, a lot of patients and their families underestimate flu symptoms. They will only see a doctor once there are complications and it is already late,” Solante said.
He adds that many are wary of being admitted to hospitals due to the foreseen high cost of treatment, but advised that those who have flu symptoms for more than 5 days should go see a doctor.
There are many reasons why Filipinos have a tendency to downplay the flu and its symptoms, as it can be a common occurrence during the flu season, which simply goes away after a few days. However, it is something we cannot afford to take lightly, especially when the symptoms persist and those affected are infants, senior citizens or those with sensitive health conditions. Let us not wait too long before seeing a health professional, just to be sure.*
