The Department of Health (DOH) has advised the public to take precautions against common cold-season illnesses as temperatures continue to drop across the Cordillera region.
DOH-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Director Dr. Amelita Pangilinan said that sudden weather and temperature changes can trigger various ailments, but these can be prevented through proper hygiene and self-care.
She urged residents, especially children and the elderly, to wear warm clothing and head covers to protect themselves from the cold.
Pangilinan also reminded the public to maintain healthy habits such as frequent handwashing, eating nutritious food, getting enough rest, staying hydrated, wearing face masks when necessary, and taking only prescribed medicine.
In its advisory, the DOH-CAR identified flu, common colds, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis as prevalent illnesses from November to March. These conditions often cause fever, cough, runny nose, sneezing, and dry skin—symptoms that may worsen due to dust, cold winds, and dry air.
Health authorities encouraged individuals experiencing these symptoms to visit health centers for proper diagnosis and treatment.
According to PAGASA, Baguio City recorded a temperature low of 17°C early Monday, with daytime highs reaching 26°C. Temperatures are expected to drop further to single digits between late January and early March during the amihan season, when flu and influenza-like illnesses typically rise.