By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Changes in weather conditions have caused a spike in the number of cases of influenza-like illnesses in Negros Occidental, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) said yesterday, after recording a 258.93 percent increase for this year.

PHO head, Dr. Girlie Pinongan, said they have recorded a total of 2,211 cases from January to December 2 of this year, higher than 616 cases logged during the same period in 2022.

Isabela town has the highest number of cases of influenza-like illnesses with 1,680, followed by San Carlos City (129), Murcia town (80), Bago City (57), Talisay City (50), Hinigaran town (20), and Cadiz City (19).

Don Salvador Benedicto town and the cities of Silay and Victorias recorded 16 each.

Pinongan said most of the cases were children.

She added that the cases were attributed to the recent spike in the number of influenza-like illnesses — characterized by fever, fatigue, body aches, cough, and sore throat — due to the onset of the cold season.

The PHO advised residents to wear face masks, especially in enclosed spaces, and to immediately consult a doctor if afflicted with the symptoms.

“We should be cautious, although there are no reports of severe condition or outbreaks,” Pinongan said.

“Avoid close contact with those with symptoms,” she added.

Pinongan also reminded the public not to take antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription, adding that most of the influenza-like illnesses can be remedied by simple medicine.

She said that public hospitals in the province have not recorded any admissions due to COVID-19 since last week.

She added that the cases were manageable./With reports from PNA / DGB, WDJ