ILOILO City – While flu cases rise in other parts of the country, Iloilo City stands out for having recorded only two influenza-like illness (ILI) cases so far this year — the lowest in recent memory — which the City Health Office (CHO) attributes to consistent health surveillance, preventive measures, and vaccination drives.
Dr. Mary Ann Diaz, head of the CHO, said the situation is “very stable,” with just two cases logged from January 1 to October 18 — a significant drop from nine cases in the same period last year.
“As of morbidity week 42, we have a total of only two reported cases of influenza-like illness compared to nine last year,” Diaz said. “If we look at it closely, the number is remarkably low. Even our attack rate has decreased by about 70 percent, which is a good sign that our preventive measures are working.”
Diaz confirmed that both patients have fully recovered — one was a confirmed flu case, while the other was only suspected but unverified.
“These are not new or active cases. They were reported months ago and the patients have fully recovered,” she clarified, adding that the city continues to monitor hospitals and clinics for new reports of ILI symptoms.
Despite a spike in influenza cases in Metro Manila, Diaz noted that Iloilo City’s situation remains manageable.
“The reports from other regions are not considered outbreaks,” she explained. “It’s just that during the last quarter of the year, we enter what we call the cold season, when flu cases naturally rise. That’s expected, but the figures are not alarming. We are not seeing any pattern here that would suggest an outbreak.”
She reminded residents that vaccination remains the best protection against influenza.
“Vaccination is still the most effective preventive measure. It doesn’t guarantee 100 percent protection, but it significantly boosts your immunity,” she said. “If you do get the flu after vaccination, your symptoms are milder, your recovery is faster, and you’re less likely to spread the virus to others.”
Diaz urged the public to practice self-care and avoid exposing others when feeling unwell.
“If you are sick, please stay home, get plenty of rest, and hydrate yourself. Treat your symptoms properly — take anti-pyretics for fever, and monitor how you feel,” she advised. “Early medical consultation is important if your symptoms worsen. This helps avoid complications and protects the people around you.”
She also emphasized proper hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
“Always cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or your elbow,” she said. “Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces that could be contaminated. Avoid crowded areas if possible, and if you need to go out, wear a mask to prevent the spread of infection.”
The CHO also issued reminders to schools to prevent possible transmission among students.
“We recommend that students showing symptoms stay home until they recover to prevent transmission,” Diaz said. “If a school reports an increase in flu cases, they can temporarily shift to alternative or online learning. Schools should also disinfect classrooms, tables, doorknobs, and other frequently touched objects regularly.”
Diaz assured residents that the CHO remains vigilant in monitoring and preventing flu transmission.
“We are continuously coordinating with hospitals, clinics, and barangay health workers to track any possible increase in flu or respiratory cases,” she said. “The goal is to keep the city safe, maintain low infection rates, and ensure that Ilonggos can continue their daily activities without fear.”
She ended with a reminder of shared responsibility: “Flu may be common, but it should never be taken lightly. Let’s continue to protect ourselves and others — through vaccination, hygiene, and care for one another. Prevention is always better than cure.”/PN
