The public is urged to take precautions during the holidays with cases of influenza-like illness in Negros Occidental having increased by 258.93 percent this year, Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, provincial health officer, said on Tuesday, Dec. 5.
There were 2,211 influenza-like cases reported from Jan. 1 to Dec. 2 this year in the 31 towns and cities of Negros Occidental, compared to 616 cases in 2022, she said.
The highest number of cases were in Isabela town with 1,680 cases followed by San Carlos City with 129, Murcia – 80, Bago City – 57, Talisay City – 50, Hinigaran – 20, Cadiz City – 19, and Don Salvador Benedicto, Silay City and Victorias City – 16 each.
Pinongan said the cases are not severe and are usually triggered by changes in weather conditions.
Pinongan said the public should avoid close contact with persons manifesting influenza like symptoms, and wearing of masks is encouraged in closed and crowded spaces as a precaution.
Influenza-like illness is characterized by fever, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
Pinongan reminded the public not no self-medicate by taking antibiotics immediately without consulting a doctor.
At present government hospitals in Negros Occidental have no COVID-19 admitted patients, but there are some in private hospitals, Pinongan also said.*