BACOLOD CITY — Health officials urged the public to take precautions during the holidays as cases of influenza-like illness in Negros Occidental increased by 258.93 percent this year.
Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, provincial health officer, said 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.
The highest number of cases were recorded in Isabela town with 1,680 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 with 16 each.
Pinongan said the cases are not severe and are usually triggered by changes in weather conditions.
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Still, she said, the public should avoid close contact with persons manifesting influenza-like symptoms.
She also urged people to wear masks in closed and crowded spaces as a precaution.
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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.