Health authorities in the Cordillera region are monitoring influenza-like illnesses closely as cooler weather sets in, with Benguet and Baguio City recording the most number of cases.

From January to August 2025, the Department of Health-Cordillera (DOH-CAR) reported 6,538 cases of flu-like illnesses such as cough, colds, and other respiratory infections.

While this is 43 percent lower than the 11,558 cases recorded in the same period on 2024, officials remain cautious.

“Of course, hindi po tayo nagiging complacent dito. Mas dapat po nagiging vigilant or magiging alert pa rin tayo para mas mabantayan natin na maiwasan natin na magkaroon ng outbreak,” Clark Dizon, program manager of DOH-CAR, said.

Benguet logged 3,122 cases while Baguio City recorded 1,929. Authorities reminded the public that influenza-like illnesses are contagious and may spread through person-to-person or indirect contact.

“Simple lang po yung prevention or recommended actions natin, katulad po ng pag-cover natin ng mouth, ng nose natin ng tissue pagka bumabahing tayo. I-dispose natin yung mga nagamit natin agad, katulad po ng mga tissues na ’yon. Importante po ang mga ’yon,” Dizon added.

Ivan Mejia, a resident of Baguio City, said the cold weather affects their daily life.

“Minsan kasi malamig talaga yung panahon dito. Tapos minsan may ice yung ulan kaya bawal lumabas kaysa magkakalagnat ka, sipon, kaya kailangan din uminom ng gamot,” he said.

Authorities continue to advise the public to take precautions in crowded places, wash hands regularly, and follow respiratory etiquette to help prevent further spread.