Even without a single confirmed case of the newly reported influenza variant, Iloilo health authorities are stepping up preparedness measures, stressing that prevention should not wait for an outbreak.
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) said influenza cases in the province remain within normal levels, with all monitored patients falling under influenza-like illness and showing no signs of a more severe or unusual strain.
IPHO chief Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon said the absence of a confirmed case should not lead to complacency, noting that simple health practices remain the strongest line of defense against respiratory illnesses.
“There is no advisory from the Department of Health regarding the presence of the so-called super flu in Iloilo,” Quiñon said. “But vigilance should be continuous. We don’t wait for cases to rise before we act.”
Health officials explained that the variant, widely referred to as “super flu,” is still classified as influenza A (H3N2) and has been reported mainly in colder countries. Because of this, international travel — particularly to North America and Europe — remains the primary risk factor.
Residents planning to travel to colder regions were advised to get vaccinated with the appropriate flu vaccine before leaving the country, while those experiencing flu-like symptoms were urged to wear masks, observe proper hand hygiene, and avoid crowded spaces.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. echoed the call for caution, emphasizing that preparedness should be part of everyday behavior, not just a reaction to warnings.
“We don’t wait for an advisory before we act. Observation, discipline, and readiness should already be part of our daily habits,” he said.
The World Health Organization earlier reported that the influenza subclade known as K has been detected in more than 34 countries. While the Department of Health said its presence in the Philippines is not alarming, it has advised travelers to secure Northern Hemisphere flu vaccines amid rising influenza cases in the United States and Europe.
Local health officials underscored that sustained awareness — rather than fear — is key to keeping Iloilo free from a flu surge.IMT
