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Suspected cases of flu-like illness in Apayao rose by 99 percent during the first 29 morbidity weeks of 2026, according to the latest surveillance report of the Provincial Health Office (PHO).
The Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit recorded 421 suspected cases, nearly twice the 212 cases reported during the same period in 2025.
Patients ranged from seven days old to 87 years old, with a median age of six. Males accounted for 232 cases, or 55 percent of the total. One suspected death related to flu-like illness was reported in Luna.
Conner recorded the highest number with 164 cases, although this was 13 percent lower than the 188 cases logged last year. Luna followed with 124 cases, Flora with 69, Pudtol with 20, Kabugao with 18, Santa Marcela with 14, and Calanasan with 12.
Luna, Flora, Pudtol, and Santa Marcela had no recorded cases during the same period last year. Cases in Calanasan increased from two to 12, while Kabugao posted a decline from 22 to 18.
Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Mark Joleen M. Calban advised residents to wear face masks when necessary, wash their hands regularly, observe proper cough etiquette, and avoid close contact with people showing flu-like symptoms, particularly during the rainy season.
Flu-like illness, also called influenza-like illness or ILI, is commonly marked by fever of at least 38°C and cough. Other symptoms may include sore throat, colds, headache, chills, body pain, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Residents experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical consultation, especially young children, older persons, pregnant women, and those with existing medical conditions.
