Diarrhea downs residents in 5 Baguio City villages

MANILA, Philippines - Nearly 400 residents in five villages in Baguio City were downed by diarrhea caused by tainted water supply, a radio report said Wednesday. Radio dzXL cited initial reports reaching the City Health Department that the water supply in the affected areas was contaminated with fecal coliform organisms. City Epidemiology and Surveillance unit head Dr. Donatel Tobera said the affected villages included Imelda Village, M. Roxas, St. Joseph, Purok 4 in Brookside, and East Modern Site Aurora Hill. The victims complained of stomach pains and loose bowel movement, but most of them were eventually sent home. Only 14 remained in hospitals as of Wednesday morning. Initial investigation showed the water from the pumping station of the Baguio Water District was contaminated because of a leak in the sewage system. The pumping station was temporarily closed for repairs. - GMANews.TV