(PHOTO: PIXABAY)
Hearing someone cough in public places such as churches, markets, or public transportation can now easily trigger anxiety, especially amid reports of so-called “super flu” cases in the country.
From Jan. 1 to Dec. 27, 2025, the Department of Health (DOH) recorded 63 cases of “super flu” nationwide.
Health experts, however, stressed that the so-called “super flu,” like other influenza-like illnesses, can be prevented by observing simple yet effective precautionary measures.
According to infectious disease specialist Dr. Evalyn A. Roxas, chairperson of the Department of Medical Microbiology (DMM) at the College of Public Health of the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila, while the term “super flu” has raised public concern, protection against influenza, regardless of variant, continues to rely on proper hygiene, responsible behavior, and vaccination.
She explained that basic infection prevention and control measures remain the most effective defense against respiratory viruses.
Roxas said maintaining hand hygiene, practicing proper cough etiquette, and wearing a face mask when showing respiratory symptoms are key preventive measures, especially during periods when flu viruses are more prevalent.
She also underscored the importance of frequent handwashing, calling it the most crucial step in preventing transmission.
“Hand hygiene is the single most important measure to prevent the spread of organisms such as respiratory viruses,” she said.
Asked whether traditional Filipino practices such as “pagmamano” should be stopped, Roxas said proper hygiene is sufficient.
“As long as we practice hand hygiene, no need to stop pagmamano.”
While face masks are no longer mandatory, she noted that they remain effective, particularly for those with symptoms.
“Wearing a mask although not mandatory now is still encouraged especially if with respiratory symptoms. It is effective in preventing the transmission of respiratory viruses.”
Dr. Evalyn A. Roxas
The infectious disease specialist also warned that crowded settings increase the risk of exposure, especially for vulnerable groups.
“Particularly for high-risk individuals, those immunocompromised, it is advisable to avoid crowded places to decrease the risk of getting respiratory viruses,” she said.
She added that staying at home when unwell helps protect others, particularly those who are more susceptible to infection.
“You decrease the chance of spreading it to susceptible individuals.”
Proper cough and sneeze etiquette likewise plays a role in reducing transmission, she said.
“Just like wearing a mask it prevents the spread and transmission of respiratory viruses. Important reminder here is to wash hands also after cough etiquette,” the doctor said.
Beyond hygiene, Roxas emphasized the role of a healthy immune system in preventing infection.
“Aside from the agent factor, an important role in preventing getting the infection is the host factor,” she said.
“If individuals have intact immune system, the risk of getting the infection is decreased.”
The health expert further warned that viruses may spread indirectly through contaminated surfaces if hygiene is neglected.
“Viruses can land on surfaces and if these are not properly cleaned and touched, this can be indirectly transmitted to susceptible individuals especially if there is no hand hygiene done,” she said.
Roxas also stressed the importance of seeking medical advice early, particularly among high-risk and immunocompromised individuals.
“Particularly if with fever or even if without fever but in an immunocompromised individual, very important to seek medical advice,” she said.
She reiterated that annual flu vaccination remains effective in preventing influenza, even as virus strains change.
“Vaccines are very effective against flu. It is highly recommended that we get our annual influenza shot,” she said.
As health authorities continue to monitor influenza cases nationwide, experts said preventing the so-called “super flu” does not require drastic steps, but consistent practice of basic health habits familiar to Filipinos.