UST, Adamson issue advisories amid rise in flu cases in Metro Manila

At least two universities in Metro Manila have issued advisories following a surge in influenza and influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in the region.

In a memorandum dated October 8, 2025, the University of Santo Tomas' (UST) Office of the Secretary-General released a Health Advisory on Influenza and Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) to raise awareness on symptoms, risks, and preventive actions against the seasonal spread of flu and related infections.

The advisory describes influenza as a contagious viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by influenza viruses, while ILI can also be triggered by other pathogens such as the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body pain, fatigue, and chills.

To prevent infection, Thomasians are strongly encouraged to:

• Wear a face mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms;
• Practice good hygiene by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based sanitizer;
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as phones, keyboards, and doorknobs;
• Get vaccinated, as flu shots are the most effective way to reduce illness severity; and
• Strengthen the immune system by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising, getting sufficient sleep, and taking vitamins as needed.

Students and staff who experience flu-like symptoms are encouraged to seek medical consultation either online through the ThOMedSS platform (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday) or onsite at the UST Health Service (7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday).

Adamson cleaning

In its own advisory, Adamson University said that the whole campus will undergo deep cleaning and disinfection beginning tomorrow, Friday, October 10, 2025, until Saturday, October 11, 2025. 

"The  university will be temporarily closed during this period. Classes in all levels will transition to online synchronous mode, and all offices will operate remotely," it said. 

Due to the recent increase in flu cases, online classes for all levels previously scheduled for the week of October 13-17, 2025, will be moved to Monday, October 13, 2025. All offices, meanwhile, will resume normal operations on Monday, October 13, 2025. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA Integrated News