Baguio city: Health officials in the Cordillera region are urging the public to wear face masks in crowded places, including cemeteries, as people prepare to observe All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on Nov. 1 and 2. Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) Regional Director Amelita Pangilinan emphasized that large crowds visiting cemeteries could increase the risk of infection.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Cordillera Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council highlighted the rising cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) during its ‘Oplan Undas’ pre-disaster risk analysis meeting. The onset of the cool, dry ‘Amihan’ season is contributing to more cases of cough, colds, and similar ailments.

Pangilinan advised wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and maintaining a strong immune system as effective measures to prevent the spread of flu-like diseases. City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes also reminded residents to wear warm clothing and consider flu vaccinations.

She stressed the importance of proper hand hygiene, particularly before and after meals, using the restroom, changing diapers, and cleaning the home. Baguio City recorded 2,947 influenza-like illness cases from January 1 to October 25, based on data from the City Health Services Office (CHSO). A report to the City Council on October 27 indicated a rise in ILI cases from late July, peaking in September to early October.

Although there was a slight dip in cases in October, health officials noted that the data remains preliminary due to delayed reports.