Rising influenza-like cases prompt class suspension in NCR

Amid rising cases of flu and flu-like illnesses, the Department of Education–National Capital Region (DepEd NCR) suspended face-to-face classes in public schools in the region on October 13-14, 2025.

According to DepED NCR, schools will implement Alternative Delivery Modalities (ADM), either synchronous or asynchronous, to avoid disruption of classes, since the suspension period will be used for disinfection and sanitation.

“The Department of Education–National Capital Region issues this advisory to ensure the continuity of learning while prioritizing the health, safety, and structural security of all public schools,” DepEd said in an advisory signed by regional director and concurrent Officer-In-Charge of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Operations Jocelyn Dr. Andaya.

Contrary to misinformation that attributes class suspension to “another Corona virus (Covid-19) outbreak”, the Department of Health (DOH) assured the public that the increasing incidence of flu is an indication that the flu season has begun.

“At the national level, the number of influenza-like illnesses [at this period] is lower than last year thus far. It is a sound precaution for local and institutional health authorities to practice preventive measures to keep the numbers down,” DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo said. “Mas mababa ng 8 percent, ngunit alam natin na kapag ganitong panahon nagsisimulang tumaas ‘yan.”

Influenza-like illnesses or flu-like symptoms are a set of common symptoms that includes fever, shivering, chills, dry cough, loss of appetite, body aches, nausea, and sneezing typically in connection with a sudden onset of illness, according to the European Influenza Surveillance Network.

These illnesses are contagious, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), as droplets containing viruses can be dispersed into the air and infect people in close proximity. Which is why the current situation of individuals displaced by the recent earthquakes may cause a spike in the number of influenza-like cases.

While some flu-like symptoms can be alleviated using home remedies, rest, and taking over-the counter medications, DOH still urges those with flu-like symptoms to seek medical advice since their weakened immunity makes them vulnerable to other types of illnesses.

With the rise in numbers, DOH reassured the public that the agency will continue tracking through its sentinel surveillance system from hospitals and other disease reporting units such as community health centers or even school clinics.

“Ang pagtaas po ay mapipigilan kung ipapatuloy natin ang paghuhugas ng kamay kung tayo ay nakikisalamuha sa mga tao. Ikalawa, kung tayo po ay may sintomas, mangyari po na manatili nalang sa bahay. Yung mga may trabaho na pwedeng work from home, payagan na po natin mga employer na magwork from home sila,” Domingo said.