Compared to last year of same period this ‘03
TACLOBAN CITY– Cholera cases in the region shows a ‘slight’ surge as reported by Department of Health(DOH).
The health office the region reported that from January up to September of this year, it recorded 3,683 cholera cases, higher by about four percent compared to the same period of last year, or 3,556 cases.
Covering the same period, the DOH also reported nine deaths due to the water-borne disease: three each in Samar and Eastern Samar provinces; two in Leyte; and one in Northern Samar.
“We have monitored an increase, albeit a slight increase at just four percent, of cholera cases in the region from the period of January up to September 30 of this year compared to the same period of last year,” Joseph Pica, health program officer of the DOH-8, said.
He, however, stressed that out of the 3,683 cases that they have monitored, only 31 were confirmed to be cholera cases with the rest of the cases categorized either as suspected or probable cases.
Based on the DOH data, 2,996 of the patients, majority were children, were treated in the hospitals.
Pica said that cholera is a preventable disease though could be fatal if not detected or treated early.
He said that personal and environmental hygiene should be strictly observed by the community which includes proper washing of hands, especially after using the bathroom; ensure that the source of drinking water is safe and not contaminated with bacteria and if needed, boil drinking water for at least five minutes.
He also said that food safety should also be practiced like eating food while hot, clean all utensils, and cook food thoroughly.
“Also ensure that our surroundings are clean. We should always have a clean and healthy environment as it influences our overall health and well-being,” Pica said.
And for those who are showing symptoms of the disease, take Oresol and seek medical attention, he said. Among these symptoms include acute diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration.
An increase of cholera usually occurs during the rainy season as it contaminates sources of drinking water.
One can get cholera if the person has swallowed food or water contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacteria.
(JOY A. GABIETA)
