Public warned vs water-borne diseases

PREPARE the rain gears, clean the surroundings and take vitamins, are some of the tips the Department of Health 7 (DOH-7) is giving the public.

The Department of Health (DOH) – 7 enumerates common diseases during rainy season which is topped by Dengue fever, Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals which is caused by bacteria Leptospira, cough, colds and influenza. It also warns the public from contaminated drinking water which can cause a host of gastro-intestinal diseases like diarrhea.

Ma. Ligaya Moneva, Health Education and Promotion Officer II of DOH-7 said that in order to prevent getting afflicted with these diseases it is important to have a clean environment.

The public is advised to clear their environment of garbage which can clog the passage of waste waters that might cause flooding.

“The canals must be cleaned in order to prevent the spread of Leptospirosis,” Moneva said.

According to Dr. Joanri Riveral, Medical Specialist II, Leptospirosis can be acquired by persons with open wounds who have been exposed to dirty water. The bacteria that causes the disease, the Leptospira usually come from rat urine.

Symptoms of Leptospirosis include yellowing of skin, red eyes, high fever and recurrence of stomach pain.

Leptospirosis is very dangerous when not treated immediately because it can ruin the liver and other internal organs.

DOH advised that during flood, one has to use boots to protect their skin from contaminated water.

Alvin Santillana, operations head of the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council warned the public against wading in floodwaters. The dangers he said is not just getting immersed and drowning, but also getting afflicted by Leptospirosis.

Drinking plenty of water, not just eight glasses of water a day is advised in order to protect one from cough and colds.

Taking vitamin C is also effective in preventing influenza. Aside from vitamin C supplements, it is also found in most fruits.

Washing of hands also prevents by 70 percent the transmission of contagious diseases.

“Proper hand washing is a must after going to the comfort room, and before meals in order to prevent transmission of diseases,” Moneva said.

Proper hygiene is also important in preventing diseases, she added./Christine Emily L. Pantaleon with reports from Santino S. Bunachita