BY JEN BAYLON
BACOLOD City – As sweltering temperatures persist in Negros Occidental, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) has issued crucial health reminders for the public.
Dr. Girlie Pinongan, PHO director, particularly gave importance to staying well-hydrated to combat the intense heat.
“Syempre ma-hydrate kita as always; indi ta gid pagdulaon ang aton nga tubig, mainom gid kita plenty of water subong kay perti gid kainit. Hydration man lang ang amon gina-advice,” she said.
Pinongan also cautioned Negrenses of the potential rise in heat-related diseases.
“Watch out sa mga sintomas sang heat stroke, kadamu gid daan sa subong ang nagataas ang BP (blood pressure), amo gid na mga balantayan ta if ever nga mga severe gid ang symptoms. May iban nga gakalipungan na, so mag-consult gid dayon sa aton mga medical professionals,” she added.
Instances of elevated blood pressure leading individuals to seek medical care have been reported to the PHO, according to Pinongan.
Some patients have visited outpatient departments, while others have sought treatment in emergency rooms, she said.
Furthermore, Pinongan emphasized the importance of clean water sources to prevent water borne diseases.
The PHO has advised local government units (LGUs) and the general public to report any shortages in water supply promptly.
“Laban subong ya ang water borne diseases, kay syempre indi maayo ang source of water. Nag-send out naman advisories ang PHO sa mga LGUs and general public nga kinahanglan ma-report sila kung may ara mga shortage sa supply sang water, kay te maapektuhan man ang may mga diseases,” Pinongan said.
Water borne diseases, caused by microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria, pose significant health risks when ingested through contaminated water. Common water-related illnesses include diarrhea, giardiasis, dysentery, typhoid fever, E. Coli infection, and salmonellosis, among others.
The PHO urges the public to prioritize hydration, maintain awareness of heat-related ailments, and safeguard clean water sources to promote overall well-being during this challenging period of extreme heat in Negros Occidental./PN
