Philippines’ Health Dept urges public to stay warm as cold weather illnesses surge
The Philippines Department of Health (DOH) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) has issued an advisory urging the public to stay safe and warm amid a significant rise in cold weather-related illnesses. Cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI), including cough, colds, and whooping cough, reached 16,954 from January 1 to December 7, 2024, with three recorded deaths. This figure more than doubles last year’s 8,034 cases and two deaths over the same period.
Engineer Benelyn Balag-ey, Nurse III at the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU), highlighted the surge in pertussis cases, which climbed to 178 this year compared to just 15 last year. The majority of pertussis cases were reported during February to April, when cold weather transitioned to summer, and from September to October, a period marked by frequent rains that further dropped temperatures.
Related: 6 Simple Asian recipes to relieve cough and cold
Balag-ey stated the importance of staying warm, particularly during fluctuating weather conditions that often remain cold, especially at night. She encouraged the public to take preventive measures such as wearing appropriate clothing, getting annual anti-flu vaccines, and maintaining a balanced diet to strengthen the immune system.
DOH-CAR and local health officials continue to conduct information campaigns to remind residents of their role in safeguarding their health during this period of increased vulnerability to cold-related diseases.
Category: Community
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