DOH 6 warns public on waterborne diseases
The school year about to open this June and the coming of rainy season, prompted the Department of Health in Region 6 to raise warning against water and food borne diseases.
Studies indicate that waterborne diseases can be caused by protozoa, viruses, or bacteria, many of which are intestinal parasites.
These parasites are commonly transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water as a result of poor sanitation and hygiene.
DOH 6 Director Ariel Valencia cited some diseases related to contaminated water due to flooding, namely, acute gastroenteritis, typhoid fever, cholera and hepatitis A.
Valencia also warned the public on leptospirosis, a disease related to wading in floodwaters contaminated with urine of infected animals, and the diseases brought by mosquitoes such as dengue and malaria.
“Clean-up all possible mosquito breeding sites such as flower vases, empty coconut shells, old tires and tin cans,” Valencia said.
On food, Valencia reminded the public that food should be well-cooked; left-overs should be covered and kept away from household pests; food waste should be disposed of properly.
The DOH 6 director said that during typhoon, make sure to get drinking water from a safe source, and when in doubt, do not drink but have it boiled for three minutes or chlorinate drinking water to make it safe. (PIA6/T.Villavert)
