By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The number of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in Negros Occidental increased by 312.17 percent last year, the latest data from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) released yesterday.

According to the PHO, from January 1 to December 31, 2023, they have recorded 2,675 ILI cases with 65 deaths, higher than 649 cases recorded in 2022.

Isabela town has the highest number of cases with 2,051, followed by San Carlos City (185), Murcia town (91), Bago City (60), and Talisay City (59).

PHO head Dr. Girlie Pinongan said in the first two weeks of 2024, they observed another increase in ILI symptoms, attributed to the changing weather conditions in the province.

Pinongan affirmed that most of the cases were children, and appealed to parents to immediately consult a physician if their children had flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, body aches, cough, and sore throat.

Pinongan said if symptoms are left untreated, it could develop into pneumonia.

Earlier, 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 ILI symptoms can be remedied by simple medicine.

The PHO said they had begun delivering anti-influenza vaccines to local government units in the province to prevent the spread of flu-like illnesses.

Senior citizens and those with existing illnesses will be prioritized in the vaccine distribution./DGB, WDJ