NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Flu Season, Not Crisis: DOH Dismisses Need For Mask Mandate
FILE
The Department of Health (DOH) has clarified that the country is not experiencing a flu outbreak, despite the noticeable rise in flu-like illnesses during the rainy season.
According to the DOH, the Philippines is currently within its usual flu season, which normally begins with the onset of the rainy months and continues as the country transitions from the southwest monsoon (Habagat) to the northeast monsoon (Amihan).
The weather bureau PAGASA earlier confirmed that the rainy season began in June and that the Habagat officially ended this October, marking the start of the cooler Amihan period — a time when flu and respiratory infections often spike.
Recent DOH data show a 39% drop in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases in the first two weeks of October compared to the last two weeks of September.
While there is no outbreak, health authorities reminded the public to stay cautious by maintaining good hygiene, ensuring proper ventilation, and staying home when feeling unwell.
The DOH also noted that local governments — such as governors and mayors — can still issue public health advisories based on local conditions, under Republic Act No. 11332, or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act.
“Walang outbreak, pero panahon ng flu ngayon kaya mag-ingat pa rin tayo,” the DOH said, assuring the public there’s no need to reinstate mandatory face masks unless the situation changes.
According to the DOH, the Philippines is currently within its usual flu season, which normally begins with the onset of the rainy months and continues as the country transitions from the southwest monsoon (Habagat) to the northeast monsoon (Amihan).
The weather bureau PAGASA earlier confirmed that the rainy season began in June and that the Habagat officially ended this October, marking the start of the cooler Amihan period — a time when flu and respiratory infections often spike.
Recent DOH data show a 39% drop in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases in the first two weeks of October compared to the last two weeks of September.
While there is no outbreak, health authorities reminded the public to stay cautious by maintaining good hygiene, ensuring proper ventilation, and staying home when feeling unwell.
The DOH also noted that local governments — such as governors and mayors — can still issue public health advisories based on local conditions, under Republic Act No. 11332, or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act.
“Walang outbreak, pero panahon ng flu ngayon kaya mag-ingat pa rin tayo,” the DOH said, assuring the public there’s no need to reinstate mandatory face masks unless the situation changes.
Oct 21, 2025
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