It been months since the worldwide outbreak of A (H1N1) influenza virus. Cases of the epidemic has been observed in the Eastern part of Mindanao and is continuously rising. At this point, there are already 42 cases of A (H1N1) virus confirmed in Davao city. The ages affected of the virus range from 1 to 42 years old from which majority are teens and those in their late 20's.

Five schools in Davao City already have their classes suspended due to cases of the virus observed among students and faculties. The five schools are Ateneo de Davao University, University of the Immaculate Conception, San Pedro College, Holy Child of Davao City, and Davao City National High Scool.

There is still no reported vaccine to protect anyone from A (H1N1). The Department of Health, however, provided guidelines on how to monitor cases of the virus and advised administrations for a 10-day isolation of those that have symptoms.

In terms of risk factor, doctors said there are high-risks groups but everyone is vulnerable to the disease. These high risk groups are said to be people with ages 65 and above and babies less than two years old. These also includes people with serious illnesses like diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, and others.

Task Force Influenza A (H1N1) in Davao city conducted a forum on the virus which addressed people's misconceptions about the virus. Some people theorized the disease to have come from swine and that it is acquired by pork consumption.

DOH officials however made public reminders that the best way to protect people from the virus is to take constant care and observation of their own health.