The Department of Health Cordillera office (DOH-CAR) has revealed that the incidence of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) has more than doubled this year.
According to the DOH-CAR Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU), ILI in the region has reached 16,954 cases at the start of December, more than double the 8,034 cases in the past year.
ILI is an umbrella term for diseases with symptoms that are similar to those of influenza, which includes common colds, coughs, and whooping cough or pertussis.
Pertussis saw a massive increase in case incidence, going from 15 cases last year to 178 confirmed cases this year. Pertussis cases were mostly recorded from February to April when the weather was cold and transitioned to summer, and from September to October when several rains were experienced which added to the cold temperature.
The RESU urged locals to take better care of themselves by availing of additional protection, such as flu vaccines, taken yearly, and having a healthy diet and personal well-being to boost the immune system.
