Public warned vs rainy season diseases

MANILA, Philippines — People have been advised to protect themselves from diseases brought by the rainy season after health authorities reported over 138,538 dengue and 89,945 influenza-like illness cases this year. Records from the Department of Health (DOH) showed the number of dengue cases reported from Jan. 4 to Sept. 5 is 36 percent lower than the 217,693 infections reported during the same period in 2025. The DOH however, noted an upward trend in the cases in recent weeks, which was attributed to the rainy season. From Aug. 9 to 22, the health agency noted a 17-percent increase with 17,788 cases reported, compared to the 15,211 infections recorded from July 26 to Aug. 8. Meanwhile, this year’s cases of influenza-like illnesses are 22 percent lower than the 115,979 infections recorded in 2025. But the DOH said the case trend is also increasing, with 6,012 cases reported from Aug. 9 to 22, which was four percent higher than the 5,762 cases recorded from July 26 to Aug. 8. Northern Mindanao recorded the highest number of influenza-like infections with 15,642, followed by Calabarzon with 13,286 and Central Visayas with 9,277. Common symptoms of influenza-like illnesses include fever, cough, sore throat, colds, body pains and headaches. The Philippines typically experiences a surge in mosquito-borne diseases like dengue during its rainy season, which runs from June to November. The consistent rainfall and increased humidity create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Furthermore, fluctuations in temperature and humidity during this period can also contribute to the spread of viral infections like influenza. These diseases pose a significant public health challenge, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, as well as individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The government is actively promoting mosquito control initiatives and emphasizing personal hygiene practices like regular handwashing and proper sanitation to mitigate the spread.