The Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (PSMID) reported a 42% increase in influenza (flu) cases in Metro Manila during the first two weeks of October, according to its latest flu surveillance data gathered from four tertiary hospitals: Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, Chinese General Hospital, and the Philippine General Hospital.

The PSMID Flu Task Force noted that flu infections began to rise in August 2025 and continued to increase through early October.

Over 6,000 flu tests were conducted during this period, with positivity rates climbing from 39% in August and September to 42% in October. The sustained high positivity rate indicates active community transmission of the virus.

The organization emphasized the need to strengthen preventive health measures to control the spread of influenza. These include vaccination, frequent handwashing, wearing masks for those experiencing respiratory symptoms, and maintaining good cough etiquette.

Individuals at higher risk of severe illness, such as young children, older adults, and people with existing medical conditions, are advised to take extra precautions.

The PSMID stated that it will continue monitoring influenza trends through its hospital network as part of ongoing pandemic preparedness and disease surveillance efforts.