As Filipinos welcomed the New Year with traditional celebrations and fireworks, the Department of Health (DOH) reported a rise in non-communicable disease cases, including stroke, heart attack, and asthma.

Asec. Albert Domingo, DOH spokesperson, said that as of 5 a.m. on December 31, a total of 288 cases were recorded nationwide. This includes 180 cases of stroke (brain attack), 77 cases of heart attack, and 31 cases of bronchial asthma. He noted that these numbers are expected to increase as families continue to observe celebrations.

Domingo warned the public to remain cautious with dietary habits during festivities, especially the consumption of salty, fatty, and oily foods, which could further aggravate these conditions.

On the topic of infectious diseases, Domingo clarified concerns regarding the so-called “superflu.” He explained that the virus circulating in the Philippines is a subtype of influenza A, AH3N2, which has already been detected in the country around July to August 2025.

Symptoms are mild and similar to regular flu, including cough, cold, fever, and body aches.

“Dahil parang ang flu kasi nagbabago-bago po yan ng anyo. Tawag natin doon mutation pero hindi naman siya ibig sabihin delikado. Ang sintomas ganun pa rin po. Ubo, sipon, lagnat, pananakit ng katawan.”

He emphasized that the main concern is monitoring vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and children, especially in the wake of smoke exposure from fireworks.

“Magkakahawig sila ng sintomas pero ang kailangan natin bantayan kung ang sintomas na ito ay lumalabas sa mga matatanda, yung ating mga seniors, tsaka sa mga bata. Kasi sila yung pinaka-vulnerable.”

The DOH continues to advise the public to observe health precautions, monitor symptoms, and avoid contributing factors that could worsen non-communicable diseases during the holiday season.