ILOILO City – The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has cautioned the public against WILD – water-borne diseases diarrhea, influenza, leptospirosis, and dengue – this rainy season.
Dr. Glen Alonsabe, DOH Region 6 epidemiologist, said everyone should make sure the water being used in their households is not contaminated.
If not sure, better have it boiled, he stressed.
It is also necessary to follow the minimum public health standards to avoid influenza which shares almost the same signs and symptoms with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Alonsabe added.
To avoid leptospirosis, on the other hand, he urged to public to avoid wading in floodwaters or swamps.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. Humans become infected through direct contact with the urine of infected animals or with a urine-contaminated environment.
The bacteria enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.
For dengue, the 4S strategy is the best prevention, said Alonsabe.
The 4S stands for “search and destroy” the breeding places of mosquitoes; “self-protection” from mosquito bites; “seek early consultation” when signs and symptoms of dengue occur; and “say yes to fogging” as a last resort when there is a looming outbreak.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection causing a severe flu-like illness that could sometimes be fatal. Its carriers are day-biting mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti) that live and breed in clean, stagnant water.
Alonsabe said hospitals in the region are now being overwhelmed with COVID-19 infections, and these diseases could be an added burden.
“Kabay pa indi na pagdugangan ang problema ta,” said Alonsabe, referring to the depleting hospital beds in the region./PN
