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DOH warns vs. waterborne diseases, flu, dengue as rainy season hits


The Department of Health cautioned the public against waterborne diseases, influenza and other illnesses that are more prevalent during the rainy season.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said waterborne diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid fever and cholera can be contracted by consuming food contaminated with either the hepatitis virus or human waste. Symptoms include loose bowel movement, stomach ache and fever.

“Kailangang ilutong maigi ang pagkain. Hindi puwedeng kung saan-saan lamang kinukuha o binibili ang pagkain, lalo na kung sa mga lansangan lang,” Duque warned.

The DOH also cautioned the public against wading in floodwaters where they may contract leptospirosis. Symptoms are fever and jaundice or yellowing of the skin and urine.

“Ito’y nakamamatay kapag hindi nabigyan ng lunes. Kaya kinakailangang magpaospital. Huwag mag-atubili, lalong-lao na sa lugar na baha at may naihian ng mga daga na infected with leptospirosis,” Duque said.

INFOGRAPHIC: What is leptospirosis?

Dengue

The number of dengue cases is also expected to increase with the onset of the rainy season.

In 2018 to date, 154 dengue patients have been brought to the emergency room of the East Avenue Medical Center. The number does not include those brought to the hospital’s outpatient department.

“Gustong-gusto ng mga lamok na nagkakalat ng dengue virus ang bagong tubig. ‘Yung, ika nga, hindi 'yan sa tubig-kanal nabubuhay o dumarami kundi sa malinis na mga lalagyan,” Duque said.

Dr. Karlo Hermo at the East Avenue Medical Center advises the public to seek medical treatment if they have a fever, pinpoint rashes on their arms, and if they experience bleeding.

The DOH also advises the public to keep surroundings clear of clean stagnant water where dengue mosquitoes can lay their eggs. It is also best to avoid wearing black, which attracts mosquitoes, and to use mosquito nets and insect repellents. — BM, GMA News

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