BAGUIO CITY – The DOH-CHD-CAR recorded an increase of Food and Water-Borne Disease cases in the region. This includes Cholera; Acute Bloody Diarrhea; Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease; and Typhoid/Paratyphoid disease.
Cholera is an extremely virulent disease which can cause severe acute watery diarrhea. It affects both children and adults and can be lethal within hours if untreated. From January 1 to October 15, 2022, three (3) cases have been reported compared to zero cases in 2021.
For the Acute bloody diarrhea, this is usually caused by overgrowth of normal flora in the gut. 730 cases were already reported this year which is 51 percent higher to the same period in 2021.
There were 611 Hand, foot and mouth disease suspect cases this year, which is 8-fold higher compared last year. This disease is usually caused by viruses which belong to the Enterovirus family.
Meanwhile, 2,478 cases of Typhoid/paratyphoid were reported which is 129 percent higher compared last year. This disease presents with high fever, headaches, loss of appetite, body weakness and diarrhea.
These two illnesses could be life-threatening if left unmanaged. Foodborne and waterborne diseases are caused by consuming food, beverages, or water contaminated by variety of bacteria, parasites, viruses and/or toxins.
Water is a necessity in our daily existence. Make sure drinking water is from a safe and reliable water source. When in doubt, it is a must to wait for 3 minutes or longer when the water reaches a rolling boil, or chlorinate drinking water to make it safe.
Food, same as water, is equally important to sustain us healthy and active. Remember that food should be well-cooked, leftovers should be covered and kept away from household pests, and food waste should be disposed properly.
Always wash your hands before and after eating, and using the toilet; when sick, consult a doctor or go to the nearest health facility at once if you, or any household member, have any sign or symptom of infection.