May Ubo at Sipon Pa Rin? Experts Warn of ‘Super Flu’

Nothing can make a parent’s Spidey-senses go off than hearing coughs or sneezes. And if it feels like everyone around you has been coughing or sneezing these past few weeks, you’re not imagining it. Experts warn that flu-like illnesses in Metro Manila could continue until February, with a new strain now being referred to as a “super flu.”

“It’s a highly transmissible type of virus. Most of the sick ones are in the NCR… Especially now, wala na nagfe-face mask, maraming lumalabas, pumupunta sa mall. This season is also where a virus can circulate more and faster,” infectious disease specialist Rontgene Solante told Super Radyo DZBB. He pointed to a subclade of Influenza A, also known as Subclade K. It’s the same strain that has spread to dozens of other countries over the past six months. Experts have called it “super flu” because the virus has changed in ways that may have helped it slip past some vaccine protection.

Despite the “super” in its name, the symptoms are similar to the usual flu: fever, coughs, colds, body aches, and fatigue. However, Solante warned not to take the super flu lightly, as symptoms can last for more than a week and up to two weeks, especially for people who don’t get enough rest and continue with their daily activities while sick. If left untreated, it may also lead to further complications.

Just like other flu and respiratory illnesses, experts recommend practicing the following protective measures:

Practice proper hygiene:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, or wear face masks in public spaces.

• Avoid unnecessary contact with people who may be feeling unwell.

Maintain healthy habits:

• Ensure adequate sleep.

• Eat a balanced diet.

• Stay physically active.

• Manage stress levels.

However, Solante said that once you or a family member starts feeling unwell, such as experiencing persistent coughing or difficulty breathing for five to seven days, seeking early treatment is necessary to help prevent complications.

“Punta na tayo sa hospital. Huwag na tayo magpa-delay,” Solante said. “The earlier you get diagnosed with the infection, maibigay yung gamot agad, mas mataas yung benepisyo na hindi ito magcocomplicate.”

Pulmonologist Dr. Maricar Limpin said that the necessary medication for flu is a prescription antiviral medication, Oseltamivir, in an interview with DZMM.

“Hindi ho antibiotic ang panggamit natin, kung hindi antiviral drug. At iisa lang ang pwede nating maibigay diyan sa ngayon, ang Oseltamivir,” Dr. Limpin said.

“Kasi yung viral infections talaga, basically, hindi naman yan pwedeng gamitan ng antibiotics. Iyon ang pinakamalaking difference between bacterial and viral infections.”

Moreover, Dr. Limpin said that the flu vaccine remains one of the best ways to prevent flu infections. It can also help minimize symptoms and reduce risk if you do get infected. She added that last year’s flu vaccine can still provide ample protection against the current strain.

This study shows 64% of Filipinos cannot afford a P10,000 hospital bill.