The Department of Health (DOH) has reiterated that no new or unusual virus is currently circulating in the Philippines, urging the public to remain calm amid speculation and misinformation online.
The clarification came after the province of Quezon announced the mandatory use of face masks on Sunday, October 19, as precautionary response to the increasing number of flu-like illness (ILI) cases.
“Our advice remains the same, it is the flu season, and to help prevent spread, it is good public health practice to keep hands clean, wear face masks when with symptoms or to protect yourself, be vaccinated, cover coughs, eat healthy diets, exercise, avoid smoking/vaping and drinking, and have adequate rest,” the DOH said in a statement.
The department also stressed that “there is no unusual or new virus or strain circulating.”
According to the DOH, three viruses are currently affecting Filipinos—Influenza A, Rhinovirus, and Enterovirus—which are typical during flu season.
“SARS-CoV-2 (which causes COVID-19) is at a low rank number 10, accounting for only 1% of cases positive for ILI,” the agency added.
The DOH’s clarification follows a surge of false reports claiming that the government is preparing for another nationwide lockdown.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa earlier dismissed these rumors, clarifying that no lockdown is being considered, as current cases fall under seasonal respiratory illnesses rather than a pandemic-level threat.
“Let me explain, the lockdown was done during [the] COVID-19 pandemic. There is no planned lockdown, that is fake news. What we have is seasonal respiratory illnesses. So, it’s not a flu outbreak,” Herbosa explained.
Several schools across the country have temporarily suspended face-to-face classes due to the rising number of ILI cases, as well as earthquake threats in Metro Manila.
The DOH reminded the public to continue observing preventive health measures, seek medical attention when symptoms persist, and rely only on verified information from official government channels.