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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider No new virus in Philippines, only seasonal flu — DOH

No new virus in Philippines, only seasonal flu — DOH

Published Oct 19, 2025 10:21 pm
The Department of Health (DOH) clarified on Sunday, Oct. 19, that there is no new or unusual virus or strain circulating in the country, stressing that the recent uptick in respiratory cases is due to the seasonal flu.
This came as the Quezon Provincial Government ordered the mandatory wearing of face masks in all indoor areas and outdoor spaces where physical distancing cannot be maintained, citing a rise in respiratory illnesses such as cough, colds, and pneumonia.
“Local Government Units (LGUs) are empowered by Republic Act No. 11332 to determine public health measures appropriate for their respective settings,” the DOH sad in a statement.
The health department underscored that its recommendations are “based on data and evidence,” and urged the public to continue practicing preventive health measures during the flu season.
“Our advice remains the same: it is the flu season, and to help prevent spread, it is good public health practice to keep hands clean, wear face masks when with symptoms or to protect yourself, be vaccinated, cover coughs, eat healthy diets, exercise, avoid smoking/vaping and drinking, and have adequate rest,” it stressed.
“There is no unusual or new virus or strain circulating.”
According to the agency, the top three causes of influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) in the country are Influenza A, Rhinovirus, and Enterovirus.
“SARS-CoV-2 (which causes COVID-19) is at a low rank number 10, accounting for only 1% of cases positive for ILI,” the DOH stated.
On Friday, Oct. 17, the DOH said there is no lockdown being planned, noting that the rise in flu-like infections is part of the seasonal increase in ILI during the rainy months.
DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa dismissed circulating rumors of a lockdown, saying these were false and clarifying that the country is merely experiencing seasonal respiratory illnesses.
The DOH noted an eight-percent decline in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases this year compared to 2024.
Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo, the spokesperson of the DOH, said 121,716 ILI cases were recorded nationwide between Jan. 1 and Sept. 27, fewer than the 132,538 cases reported during the same period in the previous year.

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