BAGUIO CITY – The City Health Services Office (CHSO) reported a total of 2,657 influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) cases from January to October this year, a 44 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2024.

CHSO head Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said no outbreaks or deaths were recorded and the cases remain below epidemic levels.

“This is a good sign that our community health practices are working. But let’s not let our guard down,” said Dr. Donnabel Panes, chief of the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU).

She reminded the public to remain alert and protect themselves against ILIs, a group of respiratory infections that usually increase during this season.

"We are seeing the usual seasonal increase in cases that has been gradually increasing over the past two months during the rainy season, especially among children aged zero to nine-years-old," Panes said.

She said the most common viruses circulating today include Influenza A (H1n1), Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and SARS-Cov-2, which means that many respiratory pathogens are still present in the environment.

A person has ILI with a fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, accompanied by a cough or sore throat. It is easily spread through droplets through coughing, sneezing, talking or touching contaminated surfaces, then touching our faces

"Anyone can get sick but children, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses are at higher risk," Panes said.

To prevent infections and protect those in the most vulnerable sectors, Panes advised wearing a mask when sick, frequent hand washing with soap and water, seeking medical care early, getting their flu shots, parents monitoring their children daily before sending them to school, and continuing to practice other healthy habits.

Meanwhile, the Rural Health Unit of Luna, Apayao detected 13 Human Immunodeficiency Virus cases as of this month.

“The rise in reported HIV cases in Luna does not necessarily mean there are more infections, but rather reflects our strengthened testing, awareness, and reporting efforts,” Municipal Health Officer Dr. Jonah Grace Verzola said. “This shows that more people are now open to getting tested and becoming more responsible for their health.”

Verzola reaffirmed that they remain committed to promoting HIV awareness, prevention, and compassionate care. She emphasized that early detection saves lives and helps end stigma.

Mayor Januario S. Garde underscored that prevention requires the collective effort of health professionals, the LGU, families, and the public.

“This report gives us a glimpse of an alarming health threat and a growing concern in our community. Tulong-tulong tayo sa pagresolba, this requires unified efforts,” he said.

The municipality has the highest number of cases in Apayao. Their age range was not disclosed.