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Davao logs 170 flu-like illnesses

By Ruth Palo

January 21, 2024 

DAVAO CITY: The City Health Office (CHO) has recorded 170 influenza-like illnesses (ILI) since New Year's Day.

Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon, officer in charge of the CHO, said that the symptoms of ILIs include coughs and colds, which are very common during the rainy season.

Ababon said that the CHO and the Department of Health recommend that Davaoeños, especially those with comorbidity, observe the minimum health requirements to avoid getting ill.

"If you are not feeling well, stay at home, and in case you go out, wear a well-fitted mask, observe proper distancing; these are the minimum health standards imposed in the city," he said in a weekly media forum.

Most people recover from the illness within a week without requiring medical attention. However, ILIs can cause severe illness or death, especially in people at high risk.

Ababon also said the CHO has administered close to 10,000 vials of flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine in the past year.

Ababon, however, admitted that the supply of these vaccines is running low, and the remaining vials are intended for senior citizens.

He said the vaccines for senior citizens are available in all district health centers and barangay health centers.