THE Department of Health- Center for Health Development –Calabarzon warned the public on diseases after a calamity.
Among them are waterborne and foodborne illnesses, influenza-like illnesses, leptospirosis, and dengue (W.I.L.D).
The DOh-Calabarzon issued the warning following the onslaught of tropical storm “Paeng” that hit the country on October 30.
DoH Calabarzon Regional Director Dr. Ariel I. Valencia said that now that storms/ typhoons are entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) one after another, expect an increase in cases of W.I.L.D. diseases that usually occur due to wet or damp surroundings caused by rains.
“In most cases, storms and heavy rains can cause flooding, and with it is a possible increase in cases of infectious diseases. These include waterborne diseases such as cholera, leptospirosis, and hepatitis A; and vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue,” Valencia said.
“Maraming naiipon na tubig-ulan mula sa empty cans, bottles, old tires. Naging stagnant ‘yung mga tubig-baha na siyang pinangingitlogan ng mga lamok na nagdadala ng dengue,” he added.
Valencia renewed the call to the public to prevent dengue by implementing the enhanced 4-S strategies.
“Bago pa man ang mga pag-ulan at pagbaha, we have been campaigning to the public to follow the 4S against dengue.”
4-S stands for “Search and destroy” mosquito-breeding sites, employ “Self-protection measures” such as wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and use of mosquito repellent, “Seek early consultation,” and “Support fogging/spraying” in hotspot areas, where an increase in cases is registered for two consecutive weeks to prevent an impending outbreak.
Influenza is also rampant during the rainy season. “Ito ‘yung isa mga dapat din bantayan ng publiko lalo na sa mga lumikas sa mga evacuation centers. Dahil sa matinding pag-ulan at malamig na panahon, posibleng magkaroon ng sipon, ubo at lagnat na madaling kumalat. Importanteng sundin ang mga pangunahing gabay sa pagkontrol ng impeksyon sa loob ng pansamantalang evacuation center ng komunidad. Ang paghugas ng kamay, pag-suot at tamang pag tapon ng gamit na mask, at physical distancing ay ating patuloy na ipinapaalala. Kabilang dito ang pagbibigay-alam ng mga lumikas sa mga itinalagang tauhan sa evacuation center kung makaramdam ng ano mang sintomas upang mabigyan ng naaangkop na pagsusuri at pangangalagang medical,” Valencia added.
The DOH also warned the public about threats of cholera and diarrhea during the floods. Drinking clean, potable water, proper sanitation, and food safety measures decrease the risk of cholera and diarrhea-associated complications and comorbidities.
After heavy rainfall, people who have bathed or waded through the flood, especially those whose open wounds or scratches are exposed to flood water potentially urinated on by rodents, could be at risk for leptospirosis infection.
“Stay indoors and evacuate only if necessary. In cases requiring a need to go outdoors, ensure suitable clothing such as a jacket, raincoat, umbrella, boots, and other protective gear. Pay attention to official TV, radio, or local government announcements/warnings,” Valencia said.
“Most of all, keep your immune system strong, eat healthy food, and increase physical activity,” the regional health official added.
