By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 862 cases of pertussis and 49 deaths from January 1 to March 24, Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag said on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.
Earlier, some cities declared a pertussis outbreak due to the increasing number of cases in their area.
Tayag mentioned that DOH’s pentavalent vaccines, used to prevent the disease, are not sufficient to accommodate all children.
“Pertussis is known to rapidly infect babies. Fortunately, we have protection against pertussis through the pentavalent 5-in-1 vaccine administered starting at 6 weeks of age. However, the vaccine supply is running low,” Tayag stated in an interview with Unang Balita.
Meanwhile, the Health official stated that the pertussis situation is “not under control” as the number of cases continues to rise.
“We cannot say it’s under control because the cases are still increasing. However, many of us can take precautions to protect our babies,” Tayag added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region is intensifying its rabies awareness program to raise public consciousness about the dangers of the virus, as six suspected cases of rabies were recorded in the first quarter of 2024.
From January 1 to March 9, 2024, the province of Pangasinan reported a total of three suspected cases, while La Union had two and Ilocos Norte one.
“Ang problema sa rabies ay patuloy pa rin po na nagbibigay ng suliranin sa ating bansa. Kaya importante na magtulong-tulong po tayo kasama ang mga lokal na pamahalaan upang pagtibayin ang programang anti-rabies gaya ng pagbibigay ng tamang impormasyon sa mga pet owners, pagbabakuna sa ating mga alagang aso at pusa, at tiyakin na ang mga bakunang anti-rabies ay madaling makuha sa lahat ng animal bite centers,” emphasized Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco.
Rabies is a vaccine-preventable, zoonotic viral disease affecting the central nervous system. Once clinical symptoms appear, death ensues.
According to the Regional Epidemiological Surveillance Unit (RESU), a total of six (6) suspected rabies cases were reported from January 1 to March 9, 2024. This figure is 100.0% higher than the number of cases reported in the same period in 2023, with three (3) cases.
The age of cases ranged from 11 to 82 years old. Most cases were males (5, 83.3%). Among the most affected age groups were those aged 50-54 years (2, 33.3%). Six deaths were reported (100% case fatality rate).
Sydiongco stated that the increase in the number of rabies cases presents an opportunity for pet owners to renew their commitment to responsible pet ownership, safeguarding the well-being of their pets but also the health and safety of their families and communities.
“Patuloy din po ang pagsasagawa ng regional office ng mga programa at mga aktibidad upang mapangalagaan ang mga alagang hayop at maitaguyod ang Responsible Pet Ownership kasabay ng pagpapaalala ng tamang pagbabakuna ng kanilang mga alagang aso at pusa upang mapangalagaan at mailayo sa rabies,” Sydiongco added.
Sydiongco also reminded the public to seek immediate medical attention when bitten by an animal.
The regional office also conducted a Rabies Awareness Month Celebration with the theme: “Rabies-Free na Pusa’t Aso, Kaligtasan ng Bawat Pamilyang Pilipino” in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte last March to provide awareness of the dangers of rabies.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region on Wednesday (03 April 2024) issued a warning to the public regarding heat stroke, as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasted high temperatures exceeding 41 degrees Celsius.
PAGASA classifies temperatures ranging from 33 to 41 degrees Celsius as “extreme caution” and temperatures from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius as “dangerous.”
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco emphasized the importance of avoiding prolonged sun exposure to prevent heat-related illnesses and heat stroke. “We advise everyone to refrain from going outdoors from 10 AM to 4 PM to avoid the extreme heat,” she stated.
“You may experience sunburn, heat cramps, dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even loss of consciousness. It is advisable to stay indoors and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids,” she added.
“When planning to spend time outdoors, wear light-colored clothing to reflect heat, use umbrellas, hats, sunscreen, and carry water to stay hydrated. Seek shaded and cool areas to prevent skin blisters,” Sydiongco advised.
PAGASA recorded a heat index of 45 degrees Celsius for Dagupan City on April 1, while Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union experienced temperatures of 41 and 46 degrees Celsius, respectively.
The heat index represents the temperature perceived by the body, or the apparent temperature necessary for human comfort.
“I urge everyone, especially those heading to beaches, to exercise extreme caution as the intense heat may persist throughout the summer,” Sydiongco urged.
She also advised residents to regularly monitor temperature reports from PAGASA and take preventive measures to avoid heat-related illnesses.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a warning to the public regarding fraudulent emails impersonating Health Secretary Ted Herbosa.
The DOH clarified that the email address being utilized does not belong to Secretary Herbosa.
Furthermore, the department emphasized that any statements, comments, or transactions made through this email do not represent Secretary Herbosa.
The DOH stated that criminal charges may be pursued if such deceptive practices persist.
In the meantime, the agency urges the public to obtain information solely from reputable sources and platforms, such as the official website and social media accounts of the health department.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded a total of 568 cases of Pertussis this year from January 1 to March 16, with 40 deaths related to the disease.
Compared to the same period in 2023, which had only 26 cases, this year’s tally is more than 20 times higher.
In a statement, the DOH emphasized the safety and effectiveness of vaccination against Pertussis. As of March 25, there are 64,400 doses of “pentavalent” vaccines available in the country, with an additional 3 million doses expected to arrive soon.
“The medical community has long been familiar with Pertussis. We have antibiotics to treat it. Vaccines are safe and effective against whooping cough; the DOH is reallocating available doses to where they are most needed. In consultation with President Marcos, I have already ordered the expedited arrival of 3 million more doses. Please rest assured but remain vigilant. We can combat this,” said Health Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa.
Regions with the highest number of local government units reporting case increases so far include CALABARZON, Metro Manila, Western Visayas, MIMAROPA, and Central Visayas. Metro Manila alone accounted for 27 percent (58 cases) of the total confirmed cases among all regions.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — In a concerted effort to bolster healthcare services in the Ilocos Region, the Department of Health (DOH) spearheaded the deployment of 532 new Human Resources for Health (HRH) workers under the National Health Workforce Support System (NHWSS).
Led by Dr. Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire, Undersecretary of Health for Universal Health Care (UHC) Health Services Cluster Area 1, alongside Assistant Regional Director Rodolfo Antonio M. Albornoz, an oath-taking ceremony was held in San Fernando City, La Union on March 13, 2024.
The deployment encompasses a diverse array of healthcare professionals, including 312 nurses, 85 midwives, 45 returning midwives to service, 29 medical technologists, 17 pharmacists, 12 dentists, 3 nutritionists-dieticians, 3 physical therapists, 16 doctors assigned to rural areas, and 10 post-residency doctors, who will be strategically stationed across various provinces within the region.
Undersecretary Vergeire emphasized that the recruitment of HRH under the NHWSS aligns with the overarching goals of the Universal Health Care (UHC), as outlined in the DOH 8-Point Action Agenda. “Many of our Local Government Units (LGUs) still lack the requisite healthcare workforce to effectively support UHC implementation. Therefore, it’s imperative to provide them with the necessary assistance until they attain self-sufficiency in discharging devolved functions, including the provision of healthcare services and program implementation,” she elucidated.
The NHWSS, formerly known as the Human Resources for Health Deployment Program, represents the government’s commitment to strategically deploy, redistribute, and retain healthcare professionals nationwide, aiming to bolster access to high-quality healthcare services and improve health outcomes. This initiative is mandated by Republic Act (RA) No. 11223, also known as the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act of 2019, which aims to ensure that all Filipinos have equitable access to a comprehensive range of quality and cost-effective healthcare services without financial hardship.
Assistant Regional Director Albornoz underscored the crucial role of the newly recruited HRH in augmenting deployment, particularly in priority Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) and other communities with marginalized and vulnerable populations. “These healthcare professionals will play a pivotal role in guaranteeing equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare goods and services for all Filipinos within their communities,” Albornoz affirmed.
(el Amigo/MNM)
MANILA — The Department of Health proudly announces that the Philippines has set a new Guinness World Record for the largest human lung formation.
This remarkable feat took place during an event themed “Tuloy ang Bayanihan, TB ay Tuldukan” held at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Saturday, March 16, 2024.
In a resounding success aimed at raising public awareness about tuberculosis (TB), the Department of Health orchestrated an event that not only broke the previous record held by India with 5,003 participants but surpassed it with over 5,596 participants in Manila.
Under the leadership of the Department of Health and in collaboration with its development partners, this monumental effort was dedicated to combating the stigma surrounding TB and mobilizing collective action towards a TB-free Philippines.
The decision to host this event was driven not only by the desire to surpass India’s 2017 global record but also to amplify the call for public involvement in the government’s efforts to combat the disease.
(By el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa has advised the public, especially the vendors, construction workers and traffic enforcers to always keep themselves hydrated and assure that there would have a break after two hours of sun exposure.
“Kailangan magpapahinga sila mga every two hours. Pupunta sila sa shade para mag-cool down ang body temperature nila, uminom ng maraming tubig,” Herbosa said in an interview with TeleRadyo.
“Dehydration mag-uumpisa ‘yan, tapos heat exhaustion, heat fatigue tapos pwedeng maging heat stroke, ayun ‘yung hinihimatay na sa tindi ng init,” he added.
Herbosa also noted that those who are doing recreational activities and sports should also take precautions especially this dry season.
“Nagbabicycle sa init, nagjojogging, nagwowalking at tska ‘yung mga nagpupunta sa beach. Pwede ka rin kasing tamaan ng heat stroke,” the Health Secretary said.
Aside from heat stroke, Herbosa also warned the public of having diarrhea during hot season as food gets easily spoiled.
“Mabilis masira ‘yung mga pagkain lalo na reheated, ilang oras mo lang iwan sira na,” he said.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has reported an 11% decrease in dengue cases from January to the first half of February.
According to the DOH, from January 14 to 27, a total of 7,434 dengue cases were reported, compared to the 8,368 cases logged from January 1 to 13.
Meanwhile, from January 28 to February 10, instances decreased to 5,267, the health agency noted.
“The figures provided are subject to change due to potentially delayed consultations and reporting,” the health department cautioned.
The DOH is continuing to monitor and assess the situation to implement necessary measures and interventions.
“The DOH encourages everyone to strengthen the implementation of the 5S strategy against dengue: Search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, use Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation, Say yes to fogging where needed, and Start and sustain hydration,” it added.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Noting the advancement of technology, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa on Wednesday said it’s time to digitize and modernize the country’s health system.
The DOH chief said that it’s time that the health department modernizes primary care as he aimed to build 28 primary care facilities that will serve the 28 million Filipinos’ health concerns by 2028.
“We need to digitize our records, we need to digitize. Meron na ngang X-ray ngayon with AI. We just need to use the current technology. Pati yung cellphone, ihaharap lang sa mukha, makukuha ang BP, respiratory rate etc. Even primary care dapat digital. Yung mga areas na walang doctor, I can connect them to a doctor in the regional hospital for telemedicine,” Herbosa quipped.
Also included in Herbosa’s priority goals are the National Immunization Program; Nutrition Program; Child and Maternal Health Programs; Tuberculosis Programs; Road Safety Programs; Non-communicable diseases with emphasis on hypertension and diabetes and; Cancer Programs.
At the same time, Herbosa said he wanted to modernize its asset management system to make procurement and delivery of essential drugs, medicines, and vaccines even more efficient, especially during times of health emergencies.
He made the statement in light of reported expired medicines worth around P1 million in a rural health unit in the town of Bacacay, Albay in the Bicol region.
“I want to modernize from procurement all the way to delivery. Kailangan makadating siya doon sa nangangailangan at yung bakuna, ay hindi mabulok doon sa refrigerator at mai-inject,” Herbosa said.
The DOH chief expressed disgust over the incident and vowed to conduct a review on the procurement and distribution of medicines at the local level.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — In a stern advisory, Department of Health Secretary Ted Herbosa cautioned the public against the use of intravenous (IV) glutathione that has not received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“IV glutathione may promise skin whitening and a ‘Caucasian’ appearance, but it poses severe risks, including potential kidney damage and even fatal outcomes,” Herbosa emphasized during a media forum held on Wednesday (17 January 2023).
Herbosa clarified that IV glutathione is intended for use in hospitals as a rescue medicine for complications arising from chemotherapy in cancer patients.
“From the perspective of the Department of Health, it is not a safe practice. The FDA has not approved for its use in skin whitening. Any utilization of such products is deemed illegal,” reiterated the Health Secretary.
Highlighting a tragic incident, Herbosa shared details about a 36-year-old woman who reportedly lost her life after undergoing glutathione and stem cell intravenous infusion at a clinic in Quezon City.
“The loss of a life that could have been prevented is a poignant reminder. Immediate action is required to address such incidents,” stressed Herbosa.
(el Amigo/MNM)
Ni Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Nanawagan si Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Eric Tayag na huwag idamay ang kanilang ahensiya sa usapin ng Charter change.
Ito ay sa gitna ng mga ulat na ginagamit ang isang programa ng DOH para sa signature campaign sa pag-amyenda sa 1987 Constitution.
“‘Huwag na tayong dumagdag sa usapin lalo na idinadawit pa ang DOH. Kawawa naman ang mga humihingi ng tulong sa amin kasi patuloy naman ang pagbibigay namin ng tulong sa kanila, kasama na itong MAIFIP Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients),” wika ni Tayag sa isang panayam sa radyo.
“Naiintindihan namin na mainit ang usapin diyan. Hayaan lang natin ang mga mambabatas na magdeklara kung ano ang magandang paraan kung talagang itutuloy nila ang Charter change,” dagdag pa niya.
Binigyang-diin din niya na hindi praktikal kung gagamitin ng signature campaign movers ang medical aid program para sa kanilang agenda dahil kakaunti lang ang benepisyaryo nito.
“Unang una, kung ang pakay… ‘yung People’s Initiative ay hindi naman gano’n karami ang nabibigyan ng MAIFIP. Halimbawa, sampu lang isang buwan, kung ‘yun ang pagtutuunan ng pansin sa People’s Initiative ay nagsayang ka lang ng oras,” dagdag pa ni Tayag.
Nauna nang kinumpirma ni Bayan Muna Chairperson Neri Colmenares na may nakarating na ulat sa kanila na may nagaganap na signature campaign para sa Cha-cha.
(el Amigo/MNM)
Learners from Dagupan City blow the traditional “torotot” to signal the start of the “Iwas Paputok ” Campaign during the launching ceremony at the Dagupan City Plaza on December 14, 2023. DOH advises the public to use alternative noisemakers for an injury-free New Year’s revelry.
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH)-Ilocos Region has reported the first casualty resulting from fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) in Dagupan City, Pangasinan.
DOH Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco disclosed that a 38-year-old male, who suffered multiple physical injuries in a blasting incident, was admitted to the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) on December 26, 2023, and tragically succumbed on the same day.
Sydiongco stated that the cause of death was attributed to burn wounds, sepsis, second-degree burns on the head and right upper extremity, and blasting injury.
“We strongly urge everyone to refrain from using firecrackers to prevent any serious incidents. Fireworks can be dangerous, and avoiding them altogether is the best way to stay safe. Let’s steer clear of areas where fireworks are being set off to avoid accidents,” Sydiongco emphasized.
From December 21 to 28, 2023, the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) reported a total of 33 FWRI cases, marking a 120% increase compared to the same period last year when there were 15 cases only.
Pangasinan leads the provinces with the highest FWRI cases at 26 (78.8%), with Dagupan City accounting for 18 cases, followed by La Union with 5 (15.2%), Ilocos Sur with 1 (3%), and Ilocos Norte with 1 (3%).
The age range of the cases is 7-74 years, with 27 (81.8%) males and 6 (18.2%) females injured.
“Most of the FWRI cases still involve children aged 5 to 14 and bystanders watching the fireworks. It’s crucial to keep children indoors when fireworks are being set off to prevent them from getting hurt,” Sydiongco emphasized.
Of the total cases, 27 (81.8%) suffered blast/burn injuries with no amputation, 3 (9.1%) suffered blast/burn injuries with amputation, and 3 (9.1%) suffered eye injuries.
Unlabeled imported firecrackers remain the primary cause of FWRI with 20 cases, followed by boga with 7, kwitis with 2, and 1 case each from “one star,” “piccolo,” whistle bomb, and “bawang.”
Sydiongco added that all government hospitals in the region are under Code White Alert from December 21, 2023, to January 5, 2023, as part of their Oplan Iwas Paputok campaign during the Yuletide season this year.
(IAmigo/MNM)
MANILA — The Department of Health (DoH) in the Philippines has reported a concerning rise in fireworks-related injuries (FWRI), with 23 new cases recorded on Wednesday (27 Dec 2023).
Since monitoring began on December 21, the total number of FWRI has reached 75.
The DoH highlights that 40 percent of cases are from the National Capital Region (NCR), 12 percent from Central Luzon, and 8 percent from Ilocos Region.
Alarmingly, 96 percent of incidents occurred at home and in the streets, predominantly affecting males ranging from 6 to 55 years old.
The injuries were primarily caused by the use of illegal fireworks, including boga, plapla, five-star, and goodbye Philippines.
The report includes details of two new amputations resulting from pla-pla incidents involving male teenagers who lost their fingers.
As the festive season continues, health authorities emphasize the need for caution to prevent further FWRI incidents.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — New COVID-19 variant has been detected in the Philippines, in which 18 individuals have tested positive for the said variant, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Sunday (24 Dec 23).
The COVID-19 Omicron subvariant JN.1 was detected through the tests conducted November 16 to December 3.
“There has been no significant increase in the number or severity of cases overall,” DOH said.
“New variants and strains of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always there – but only a few become “of concern”. JN.1 is not one of those. It is another Omicron subvariant with no evidence of increased severity or unusual clinical presentation. There is also no evidence that it spreads faster,” DOH pointed out.
As per the DOH, the WHO designated the JN.1 as a variant of interest, emphasizing the need for epidemiologists and researchers worldwide to closely monitor and investigate it.
Additionally, the DOH advised the public to utilize many layers of protection this holiday season, especially for those who are vulnerable.
These measures included wearing face masks, making sure there is enough ventilation and good airflow, covering coughs, and getting vaccinated.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — With more than a week left before the New Year, the Department of Health (DOH) has recorded four (4) new cases of fireworks-related injuries, bringing the total number to eight (😎.
All the new cases involved children aged 8 to 12, with three of them linked to the use of illegal fireworks.
Among the total cases, the specific fireworks involved were Boga (3), Piccolo (2), 5-star (1), Baby Dynamite (1), and Goodbye Philippines (1).
The DOH is urging parents to be vigilant and monitor their children closely.
“Parents should keep a watchful eye on their children and set an example by opting for noise-making alternatives,” the agency emphasized on Saturday (23 Dec 2023).
Additionally, the DOH suggests that law enforcement agencies, mayors, and barangay captains take action to halt the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Instead, they should encourage community fireworks displays as a safer alternative to household use.
(ai/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The age-old adage that says “prevention is better than cure” must have driven the (DOH) to be proactive as it was able to inoculate 8,164,031 or 84 percent of the target population when it conducted a Measles-Rubella-bivalent Oral Polio vaccine supplemental immunization activity (MR-OPV SIA) from May to June this year.
DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa has stressed that measles and rubella cases can be prevented through vaccines and that most cases recover but still the disease can also be fatal.
“Iyong measles, self-limiting. They usually recover. But because the immune system of the kid is mababa, napapasukan sila ng bacterial pneumonia. Again, this is a respiratory illness. Doon sila namamatay, broncho-pneumonia, which is usually bacterial. So opportunistic iyan, dahil nagka-measles sila, mahina ang katawan tapos dadapuan ng second illness,” Herbosa said in a recent press conference.
The DOH announced that the campaign targeted 9 to 59-month-old children to have at least one dose of the measles and rubella vaccine, in a bid to allay an “impending risk of a measles outbreak”.
“However, to achieve quality SIA (supplemental immunization activity), the target is at least 90% of the target population. Partial unofficial data on the coverage for two doses of Measles-containing vaccine as of September 2023 is at 45.52%,” the DOH told reporters.
It further explained that measles and rubella cases are “showing a steady uptrend with cases in the recent three to four weeks (October 29 to November 11) 6 percent higher”.
“Additionally, 442 cases were reported in the recent four weeks. At the regional level, Regions I, IV-A, and IX showed a continuous increase in the recent six-week period (October 15 to November 25), while NCR, Regions III, V, XI, XII, and BARMM showed case increases in the recent 3-4 or 1-2 weeks, reporting 2 to 253 new cases in the recent four weeks,” the DOH disclosed.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has advised the public to exercise caution in their food choices during the Christmas season, emphasizing the persistent threat of heart disease as the leading cause of death among Filipinos.
Expressing concern about lifestyle-related illnesses, Herbosa emphasized the restriction of ‘ma’ foods—those that are fatty (mataba), salty (maalat), and sweet (matamis). He highlighted the nutritional value of salads and fruits, emphasizing the importance of moderation in consumption.
While acknowledging the restrictions, Herbosa also encouraged individuals to indulge sensibly, stating, “It’s permissible to taste. Once you’ve experienced it, that’s enough. You’ve already sampled the food that was served. It’s wonderful to celebrate, but I don’t want Filipinos celebrating in the emergency rooms of hospitals.”
Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Herbosa pointed out that ischemic heart disease accounted for 121,558 cases or 18.3 percent of all deaths in the nation from January to December 2022, solidifying its status as the leading cause of death.
(IA/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday reported that the allocated beds for COVID-19 patients in three hospitals are nearly at full capacity.
The affected hospitals include the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, the National Kidney Transplant Institute, and the Medical City.
Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag emphasized the severity of the situation in a recent television interview, stating, “Halos sagad na po ‘yung mga kaso ng COVID nila doon sa allocated beds sa mga nasabing ospital. Sa pangkalahatan, ang ibang rehiyon naman ay hindi pa umaabot sa ganong sitwasyon” (Translation: Cases of COVID are almost reaching the full capacity of the allocated beds in these hospitals. Generally, other regions have not yet reached such a situation).
In response to the rising cases, the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (PGH) has implemented the mandatory use of face masks as a preventive measure.
DOH recommends the use of face masks, especially for senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals who have not completed their vaccine doses.
Tayag stated, “Sa amin naman sa Kagawaran ng Kalusugan, ang pagsusuot ng mask ay aming nirerekomenda sa mga senior citizen, mga buntis, mahina ang katawan, lalong lalo na hindi naman nakumpleto ang bakuna po” (Translation: In the Department of Health, we recommend the use of masks for senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, especially those who have not completed their vaccine doses).
(ai/mnm)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has announced that all four cases of “walking pneumonia” have successfully recovered.
“Only 4 (0.08%) of the confirmed influenza-like illness cases from January to November 25, 2023, were attributed to M. pneumoniae or ‘Walking Pneumonia.’ All these cases have now been recovered. More than half of the confirmed ILI cases were caused by other well-known and commonly detected pathogens. We have effective medicines for treating M. pneumoniae, and its transmission can be easily prevented,” stated the DOH.
According to the DOH, Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common and known pathogen that can cause various infections, including colds and pneumonia.
It is classified as one of the influenza-like illnesses (ILIs), presenting symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and cough.
“Younger children may exhibit cold-like symptoms. Although all age groups can be affected, individuals with weakened immune systems and those living in closed settings are at a higher risk of developing more severe diseases. Filipino doctors and medical personnel in our hospitals are equipped to treat M. pneumoniae and have the necessary medicines,” the agency assured.
“Here in the Philippines, the DOH has previously identified M. pneumoniae using various methods. The DOH surveillance systems can detect ILIs and confirm their causes through laboratory testing,” it added.
Earlier, the DOH reported four confirmed cases of “walking pneumonia” as of November 25.
(ai/mnm)