As cooler weather settles across Pangasinan, health clinics are seeing more patients with flu-like symptoms, a trend doctors say often comes with the peak of the amihan season.

Data from the Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Region 1 show that influenza-like illnesses (ILI) have started to increase in the third week of December, a period when colder temperatures become more noticeable.

In Dagupan City, residents have begun visiting health centers after days of coughing, difficulty breathing, and fever. One of them is Rosemarie Tamondong, who sought medical help after her symptoms worsened.

“Kasi hindi na ako nakakatulog ng gabi. Ubo ako ng ubo tas hirap akong makahinga. Yung mata ko, nag-iinit siya,” she said.

From January to November 22 this 2025, DOH-CHD recorded 11,459 ILI cases in the region. This is lower by 8.8 percent compared with the 12,567 cases logged during the same period in 2024.

Despite the decrease, health officials say they remain cautious as temperatures continue to drop.

“Hindi pa rin tayo nagiging kampante dahil inaasahan natin na maaaring tumaas pa ang mga kaso na ito dahil medyo lumalamig na ang ating klima,” Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson of DOH-CHD Region 1, said.

Health data also show that most ILI patients are children, one to four years old. Because the illness spreads easily, authorities remind the public to take preventive measures and seek early consultation when symptoms appear.

Bobis explained that many ILI cases are caused by viruses and may improve with proper care.

“Ang ILI naman karamihan sa kanila ay viral diseases. Ibig sabihin, puwede silang mag-resolve kahit hindi po umiinom ng gamot. Kailangan lang po ng pahinga at supportive treatment,” he said.

Health officials continue to advise the public to rest, stay hydrated, and observe proper hygiene as the colder months and holiday gatherings continue.