The Department of Health (DOH) assures the public that there’s no cause for alarm regarding the increasing cases of respiratory diseases among children in China. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing safety, the DOH issued a statement addressing concerns.
The rise in respiratory infections in China is attributed to the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and the onset of the cold season, according to the DOH. The statement aims to alleviate fears amid a similar uptick in flu-like illnesses in the Philippines.
The DOH emphasizes that there’s no evidence of novel pathogens or unusual clinical presentations. The public is advised to adhere to precautionary measures, including mask use for individuals with comorbidities and autoimmune diseases.
Benito Atienza, Vice President of the Philippine Federation of Professional Associations, highlights the challenge of distinguishing flu from COVID-19 without a swab test. He recommends seeking medical attention for flu-like symptoms persisting for three days.
