DOH warns on algal bloom in coastal waters
Department of Health (DOH) 6 warned the public on the “algal bloom” in coastal waters caused by the extreme rise in temperature due to the El Niño phenomenon.
Dr. Glenn Alonsabe, regional epidemiologist said red tide is caused by algal blooms in coastal waters which could affect shellfish products. It is one of the ill-effects brought by the El Niño phenomenon.
As to date, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the region have yet to issue any advisory banning the gathering and selling of shellfish unlike in other areas in the country.
The health department has already issued a ban on selling and harvesting of shellfish in Sorsogon Bay in Sorsogon; Murcielagos Bay in Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental; Dumanguilas Bay Zamboanga del Sur, Bislig Bay in Bislig City.
Western Visayas, Roxas City in particular is considered as the seafood capital of the Region 6. Its coastal waters are important in the trade and commerce. Produce from Roxas City such as oysters, crabs and prawns are shipped to Manila and other parts of the country.
In other related health problems brought about by El Niño phenomenon, Alonsabe said the dry spell will also cause skin disease like sunburn and prickly heat. Health problems such as heat stroke, diarrhea and cholera are also prevalent this hot season.
We have to avoid the scorching heat of the sun particularly between 10 am until 2 pm. Let us stay in shaded areas or any cool place and avoid exposing ourselves in direct sunlight, said Alonsabe.
The scarcity in water will also force us to store water in containers. Make sure waters stored in containers are not contaminated as it will also cause sickness like cholera and diarrhea, said Alonsabe.
The cholera and diarrhea sickness emanates from dirty water. He said people should make sure the water stored in containers is clean. The leaks in the water pipeline should also be checked to ensure that there is no seepage of bacteria.
There are water pipelines which are placed near the canals. Water coming from the water provider will be contaminated when there is a leak in the water pipeline.
The water intake should also be increased. Though, Alonsabe cautioned in buying bottled water sold along the streets. In drinking bottled water, make sure it is not sold by “fly by night” water refilling stations.
Alonsabe also suggested that people should bring their own drinking water to fill their thirst. They can boil the water coming from the local water provider and cool it down before placing in handy water containers.