The Department of Health (DOH) has urged communities to remain vigilant as influenza-like illnesses (ILI) continue to affect thousands of residents across the Ilocos Region.

DOH–Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco said the agency has activated several response measures, including community surveillance, health monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and coordination with local health units to contain the spread of the illness.

While the region has recorded a 16.9 percent decline in ILI cases compared to last year, Sydiongco cautioned against complacency.

“Influenza is a contagious respiratory infection that can range from mild to severe and may be life-threatening for vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses,” Sydiongco said.

The illness, caused by influenza viruses, spreads mainly through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or saliva. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.

Sydiongco emphasized that prevention remains the best protection—especially during the cooler months when flu cases tend to rise due to the northeast monsoon. She advised the public to wear face masks when coughing or sneezing, stay home when sick, maintain good ventilation indoors, eat nutritious food, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

She also reminded residents that vaccination provides an added layer of defense against the flu.

Data from the DOH–Ilocos Center for Health Development’s Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) showed that from January 1 to October 15, 2025, the region recorded 8,842 ILI cases, lower than the 10,605 cases logged during the same period last year.

Pangasinan reported the highest number of infections with 2,960 cases, followed by La Union with 2,762, Ilocos Norte with 2,229, Ilocos Sur with 1,345, and Dagupan City with 546. (Ahikam Pasion)