DOH prepares public vs diarrhea
Drink water only from safe sources and if unsure, boil water for 3 minutes or do chlorination, This was the advice of the Department of Health (DOH) - Center for Health Development 6 (CHD 6) to residents especially after the occurrence of Typhoon "Caloy" that signaled summer is over in the country.
In its advisory, the DOH said the rainy season marks the onset of many water-borne diseases like diarrhea whose occurrence can be prevented if we know the ways on how to prevent and control it.
Diarrhea can be caused by indigestion or mostly, by ingestion of contaminated food and water with bacteria or protozoan. The passage of watery stools three (3) times a day, excessive thirst, sunken eyeballs and fontanel in babies are amongst its signs and symptoms.
The DOH said the immediate treatment for diarrhea is administration of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORESOL) while rice soup (am) as fluid replacement is encouraged. Feeding is continued with properly prepared foods. However, if the diarrhea does not stop, the public is advised to consult their nearest health worker.
But just like any disease, prevention and control of diarrhea is almost always better than curing it. Here are some of the prevention and control measures:
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Drink water only from safe sources.
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Eat only foods that are well cooked and properly prepared. Limit eating "street vended foods" if it can't be avoided.
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Keep the food away from pests by covering using food cover.
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Wash fruits and vegetables with soap and water before eating or cooking.
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Use toilet when defecating.
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Make it a habit to wash hands with soap and water before eating and using the toilet.
(PIA)