Flu Season Alert: Rising Flu Cases in the Philippines and How to Stay Protected
It seems we’re back to wearing masks and sanitizing our hands frequently – here we go again! As the Philippines experiences a rise in flu-like illnesses, several schools have issued advisories to take extra health precautions, echoing the safety habits practiced during the pandemic years.
The recent spike in flu-like symptoms among students and faculty prompted the suspension of face-to-face classes in public schools for several days. Some private schools shifted to online classes, while others announced health breaks to conduct campus-wide disinfection.
Common Symptoms to Watch Out For
According to the Mayo Clinic, flu, also known as influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, particularly the nose, throat, and lungs.
Flu symptoms can vary from person to person. One family member might have a runny nose and fever, while another could experience headache, sore throat, and body aches. The combination and intensity of symptoms may differ, but both situations can still point to the flu.
Here are the common symptoms of the flu:
- Fever
- Headache
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Mayo Clinic notes that most people who get the flu can often recover at home with enough rest and plenty of fluids. Over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also help reduce fever and relieve muscle aches or headaches. Recovery from the flu may take a few days to a week.
When is it Time to See a Doctor
If symptoms persist more than a week, become severe, or are accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or high fever that won’t go down, seek medical care right away. These may be warning signs of flu complications such as pneumonia or other respiratory infections.
How to Prevent Flu
Despite the surge of flu-like illnesses, the Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said that there is no outbreak of influenza in the country. He explained that the uptick in cases is a usual seasonal pattern of flu, typically observed during the cooler months of the year.
However, the absence of an outbreak doesn’t mean we can let our guard down. Care Center Clinic is your partner in fighting the flu. Here are simple but effective tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during the flu season.
1. Get vaccinated.
Getting a flu shot remains the most effective way to prevent infection or reduce the severity of illness. Since flu strains change each year, annual vaccination is recommended. The Care Center Clinic, a trusted outpatient clinic in Metro Manila, offers safe and reliable flu shots for individuals and families. You’re not only safeguarding yourself and your loved ones but also the wider community.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Washing your hands regularly with soap and water may seem like a small habit, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to prevent the spread of viruses — including the flu. Use alcohol-based sanitizers when soap and water aren’t available.
Clean hands can make a big difference in keeping you and your family healthy. For more insights, check out our article World Handwashing Day 2025: Why Clean Hands Mean Better Health for Filipinos, which highlights the importance of proper hand hygiene.
3. Wear a Mask When Needed
With the recent rise in flu-like illnesses in the country, wearing a mask has once again become a smart and considerate health practice. Wearing a mask is advisable in crowded areas such as schools, offices, malls, or public transportation, where viruses can easily circulate.
If you’re feeling unwell, wearing a mask reduces the spread of respiratory droplets that can carry the flu virus. It’s a small act of responsibility that helps protect the people around you from getting sick — including classmates, coworkers, family members, and even strangers.
4. Disinfect Commonly Touched Surfaces
Keep in mind that viruses can survive on surfaces for hours. Make it a habit to regularly disinfect commonly touched items such as doorknobs, light switches, mobile phones, remote controls, computer keyboards, and tables. This can help minimize the risk of transmission.
5. Boost Your Immune System
Support your body’s natural defenses by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activities. Managing stress also strengthens your immune system.
6. Stay Home When Sick
To help prevent the spread of the flu virus, anyone showing symptoms is strongly encouraged to stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever has gone down. Make sure your fever subsides naturally, without taking any fever-reducing medication, before heading out.
Bottomline
Protecting yourself and your family from the flu begins with simple and consistent health habits. With the recent increase in flu-like illnesses, getting vaccinated remains your best defense against infection.
Don’t wait until symptoms strike. The Care Center Clinic offers flu vaccines and medical consultations to help keep your household healthy and flu-free.
Stay a step ahead of the flu. Visit your nearest Care Center Clinic today to get your flu shot at 30% off for all walk-ins – while supplies last!