The South African pacer is also in doubt for their game against Ireland next Tuesday after being diagnosed with a Grade 1 hamstring strain.
Philander sustained the injury on Sunday, during the clash against India at the MCG, when he bowled just four overs and was off the field for most of the Indian innings.
He returned to bat later in the game but an MRI scan on Monday revealed the extent of the damage.
“We have to give him every opportunity to make sure that he can be available. At the same time we don’t want to be foolish by taking short-cuts,” said Mohammed Moosajee, the team’s manager.
“If he passes all the fitness tests and is symptom free going into the Ireland game he may play but at this stage it is too early to tell”.
This is the second time in six months that Philander has been sidelined with the same problem.
He was also ruled out of the triangular series between South Africa, Zimbabwe and Australia with a hamstring niggle but recovered in time for the West Indies series at home.
