Baguio City officials have issued a warning to residents about the health dangers posed by the recent drop in temperatures, which could lead to serious conditions such as asthma, heart attacks, and strokes, particularly among the elderly. Dr. Donnabel Tubera-Panes, head of the City Epidemiology Surveillance Unit, emphasized the importance of taking preventive measures during a live-streamed briefing on the city’s official social media channels. She advised that senior citizens should take advantage of the free anti-flu vaccines available at Rural Health Units, which are offered annually in addition to the anti-pneumonia vaccine provided every five years. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in Baguio predicts that temperatures could dip to as low as 10 degrees Celsius in January and 9 degrees Celsius in February. Dr. Tubera-Panes stressed the importance of staying hydrated with warm water to help maintain normal body temperature and recommended getting ample rest, eating a balanced diet, and wearing warm clothing. Last year, the city saw 9,688 cases of influenza-like illness, resulting in 19 deaths, attributed to the cold weather.
