WITH the rains trying to squeeze past the El Nino phenomenon via thunderstorms, the Department of Health (DOH) issued a warning to the public against possible disease that may spread with the country gradually shifting from dry to rainy season.
DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said Filipinos should be prepared against such diseases as “WILD.”
Elaborating further, Domingo said WILD stands for Water and food-borne diseases; Influenza-like illnesses; Leptospirosis; and Dengue.
Among the water and food-borne diseases, Domingo said, include food poisoning. This happens when a person drinks contaminated water, that usually results in gastroenteritis.
“Kung hindi tayo sigurado sa ating iinumin na tubig, walang mawawala kung pakuluan ito ng dalawang minuto. Simula kapag bumubula na ‘yung tubig sa kulo, mag-timing tayo ng two minutes tapos palamigin after then saka natin inumin,” Domingo said.
Meanwhile, coughs, colds, and sore throat, are included in influenza-like illnesses.
These illnesses are apparent nowadays as the weather changes.
Domingo also said that COVID-19 cases are being observed.
However, he clarified that those who have symptoms should immediately get tested because there is a possibility that these are only caused by the changing weather or allergies.
“Maaaring dahil ‘yan sa pagbago ng panahon dahil ‘yung ating mga nasal mucosal, ‘yung loob ng ating ilong at ng ating lalamunan, naninibago sila sa tubig sa hangin. Whether bumabawas ‘yung humidity or tumataas, nai-irritate ‘yung lining ng ating lalamunan at ilong,” he added.
He also reminded the public to avoid submerging themselves in flood waters in the coming rainy season.
If unavoidable, Domingo said, take a bath immediately.
One should also consult the doctor if the person has an open wound, as they can get leptospirosis.
Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria leptospira from the urine of infected animals or a urine-polluted environment. Its symptoms include fever, chills, conjunctival suffusion, headache, and jaundice.
