Flu-like illnesses in Negros Occidental up 312% with 65 deaths

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

BACOLOD CITY — Influenza-like illnesses in Negros Occidental increased by 312.17 percent last year.

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported on Jan. 9 that 2,675 cases of influenza-like illnesses in Negros Occidental in 2023 with 65 deaths.

This was an increase by 312.17 percent compared to 2022 when 649 cases and 19 deaths were recorded.

Isabela town had the highest number of influenza-like cases in 2023 with 2,051 and one death, followed by San Carlos City with 185, Murcia – 91, Bago City – 60 and Talisay City – 59.

More patients suffering from respiratory ailments such as pneumonia had also been admitted in Negros Occidental hospitals at the start of 2024, said Dr. Girlie Pinongan, provincial health officer.

READ: Influenza-like cases in Negros Occidental up by 258%

There was also an increase in the number of patients suffering from asthma, who were admitted after the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

“It is important to see a doctor if one is not feeling well to prevent phlegm or pneumonia from developing,” Pinongan said.

Influenza-like illness is characterized by fever, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and body aches, among others.

Pinongan urged people to wear masks in closed and crowded spaces as a precaution.

She reminded the public not no self-medicate by taking antibiotics immediately without consulting a doctor.