Pangasinan Sees 66% Increase in Influenza Cases in 2023

Pangasinan – The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Pangasinan has reported a 66 percent increase in influenza cases in 2023, with 3,592 cases compared to 2,158 in 2022. This significant rise was primarily observed from September to December, a period marked by changes in weather conditions.

According to Philippines New Agency, the most significant spike in influenza cases occurred in November, with 526 reported cases. Infants to children aged nine were the most affected group. The PHO has been closely monitoring several municipalities and cities, including Anda, Bayambang, Lingayen, Alaminos, Bolinao, Binmaley, Bani, Malasiqui, and Mangaldan, for further outbreaks and spread of the virus.

Dr. Rheuel Bobis, a medical officer at the Department of Health-Center for Health Development in the Ilocos Region, attributed the increase in influenza cases to the relaxation of COVID-19 protocols, including the scrapping of mandatory outdoor face mask usage and easing of movement restrictions. In a phone interview conducted on Friday, Dr. Bobis emphasized the importance of preventive measures to combat the spread of influenza.

He advised the public to avail of flu vaccines, which are provided free of charge to senior citizens at rural health units or health centers. Dr. Bobis also recommended avoiding crowded places or areas with poor ventilation, as airborne diseases are more likely to spread in such environments.

Highlighting the importance of proper nutrition and prevention for both children and adults, Dr. Bobis advised those experiencing influenza-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and body aches, to rest and isolate from other family members to prevent further transmission. He assured that symptoms typically subside within or in less than seven days.