Public urged to watch for ‘rainy day’ diseases

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Health-7 advised the public to be cautious against communicable diseases brought by the unpredictable changes in the weather.

“Because of the unpredictable change of climate, we have to take the extra precautions,” DOH-7 Health Education and Promotion officer Ligaya Moneva said.

Moneva enumerated the possible diseases that one can acquire this wet season which include dengue, leptospirosis, flu and stomach problems caused by contaminated water.

She mentioned dengue as their priority concern as it is a year-round problem following the increasing cases of this disease.

According to Moneva, DOH-7 already introduced approaches and measures for prevention. These include the Search and Destroy and 4 o’clock habit which call the public to get rid of empty bottles and containers that can serve as possible breeding places of mosquitoes. The department has also directed the barangays to take preventive measures through the Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue.

DOH-7 also stressed that if inflicted with this disease, one should go to the nearest health facility for a checkup.

“Kung naay gihilantan sa pamilya, ayaw na huwata nga mo-third day ang hilanat,” Moleva said.

DOH also warned the public against Leptospirosis which can be acquired by a person who has been exposed to dirty water. The public is also advised to unclog canals and clean their surroundings.

The Leptospira bacteria come from the rat’s urine and use open wounds as the entry point.

With the sudden change of the weather condition, teachers and parents are also advised to let the children stay indoors to prevent them from getting colds and cough.

“Take fluid ug wash your hands properly lang gyud to avoid spreading these diseases,” Moleva said.

DOH also warned to public to be cautious against contaminated water and street foods which are the common causes of diarrhea and stomach problems. Food handlers were also advised to take proper hygiene and have food containers free from contaminated area.

“We always say that prevention is better than cure, and the best way of preventing is to clean the surroundings and get rid of the breeding places.” Moleva added.  (FREEMAN)