Influenza, or the flu, is a common illness that is often ignored by many. But according to experts, it should not be underestimated because it can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia. According to data from the Department of Health (DOH), thousands of cases of influenza-like illnesses are recorded every year, and it is among the main causes of death in the Philippines. To avoid the risk, it is important to have the right knowledge about this disease and follow the advice of experts.
On Tuesday, experts warned that Filipinos should not underestimate influenza. The warning follows the untimely death of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, better known as Shan Cai from "Meteor Garden," due to pneumonia caused by influenza.
Unlike bacteria that can be treated with antibiotics, viruses like influenza can only be managed. Dr. explained J. Jose Turla, a pulmonologist from Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center, why viral pneumonia is more dangerous.
“I can say that it is more dangerous. Viral pneumonia, because the pathophysiology is different. Because it is higher that causes inflammation in our airways, specifically in the airsac or space where oxygen passes to the blood," according to Dr. Turla.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), pneumonia is the fourth leading cause of death in the country in 2023 and 2024. It is also one of the only infectious diseases among the top five causes of death. The Lung Center of the Philippines mentioned that three factors affect a person when it comes to illness — the strength of the microorganism, the condition of the human body, and the environment it lives in.
"The weaker the body, the weaker the immune system, the greater the risk of contracting other germs. So if that's what happened to you, you don't have that protection even if you've been vaccinated against pneumonia specifically for pneumococcal pneumonia," according to Dr. Norberto Francisco, spokesperson of the Lung Center of the Philippines.
He also said that, “Sometimes, the viral infection is superimposed by the bacterial infection. There is a superimposed bacterial infection. So sometimes, if it started as a viral infection, it becomes a bacterial infection.”
As protection, experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong immune system. Vaccination against influenza and pneumonia is also recommended, especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Despite the decrease in cases of influenza-like illnesses according to the DOH, vigilance and proactive action against this disease is still important.
