Silang among top hotspots as flu-like illnesses shoot up in Cavite

Cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) have surged in the town of Silang, Cavite, placing it among the top five areas in the province with the highest number of infections, health officials said.

According to the Cavite Provincial Health Office, Silang recorded 252 ILI cases as of October 12, based on surveillance data released on October 15, 2025.

The town trails behind Tagaytay (481), General Trias (424), and Ternate (313), with Mendez Nuñez rounding out the top five at 210 cases.

Province-wide, Cavite logged 2,828 ILI cases so far in 2025, a 36 percent drop from the 4,449 cases reported in 2024, said Dr. Nelson Soriano, head of the provincial health office.

The rise in respiratory infections prompted Governor Abeng Remulla to suspend face-to-face classes across Cavite, shifting students in both public and private schools to online and modular learning.

Local governments in eight cities and 15 municipalities have also urged residents to wear face masks in public spaces.

ILI refers to a group of respiratory illnesses that mimic flu symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches.

While not necessarily caused by the influenza virus, these illnesses tend to spike during the rainy season and can spread rapidly in crowded environments such as schools.

The Department of Health has clarified that the current uptick in cases does not constitute an outbreak, noting that the numbers remain within expected seasonal ranges.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said that no lockdowns are planned, but advised symptomatic individuals to stay home and practice hygiene measures to prevent transmission.