DOH urges Filipinos to prioritize hygiene amid surge of ‘WILD’ diseases

February 14, 2025 , 06:45 PM

By Gabriel Kim Leal

(February 14, 2025) – The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday called on the public to prioritize proper hygiene as cases of water and food-borne illnesses, influenza-like illnesses, leptospirosis, and dengue or “WILD” diseases, as the agency coined it, continue to rise.

Influenza-like illnesses have seen a sharp increase with 5,150 cases recorded between January 5 and 18—more than double the 2,388 cases reported from December 22 to January 4.

“The department urges the public to seek early medical consultation to ensure timely treatment and prevent complications if you experience any symptoms of WILD diseases like fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea,” said Herbosa in a media release.

He said they are monitoring global health trends, including an influenza advisory from Japan, where cases spiked in late December before easing in January.

The DOH also noted that leptospirosis cases have increased by 8%, with 422 reported this year compared to 392 in the same period last year.

“Due to current weather patterns, the public is urged to seek medical attention if exposed to floodwater, even if there are no wounds, as symptoms may appear from an average of two weeks but up to 30 days later,” said the DOH, as quoted by the Philippine News Agency.

Meanwhile, dengue cases have jumped 40% year-on-year, with 28,234 cases recorded between January 1 and February 1.

Last year, 702 died from dengue, while 660 died from leptospirosis in the Philippines.

The DOH encouraged the public to actively participate in prevention efforts by destroying mosquito breeding sites, using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and supporting fogging operations in high-risk areas.

It likewise stressed the importance of frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after visiting public places.

(PM)

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