DOH-5 Warns Public Anew on Rainy Season Diseases

With the onset of the rainy season, the Department of Health in Bicol (DOH-5) is urging the public to take precautions against the so-called “WILD” illnesses.

WILD stands for water-borne diseases, influenza , leptospirosis and dengue—Illnesses that are associated with the rainy season.

DOH-5 explained that water-borne diseases are caused by drinking water contaminated by human or animal feces. Water-borne diseases include diarrhea, typhoid fever, cholera, hepatitis A, and leptospirosis.

To avoid these diseases, DOH-5 advises the public to drink only filtered or boiled water, always wash hands before and after eating, store water in clean containers, and practice proper waste disposal and good personal hygiene.

Another common disease this rainy season is influenza, commonly known as the flu, which is characterized by cold-like symptoms and headaches. Flu is transmitted by droplets that enter the body through the nose or mouth.

DOH-5 recommends the public to avail themselves of annual influenza vaccination, get enough rest and drink plenty of liquids.

Due to the potential health risks of floodwater, DOH-5 also warns the public against leptospirosis that people usually acquire when they get contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals.

DOH-5 said people should refrain from swimming or wading in potentially contaminated floodwater, use proper protection like boots and gloves, and control rats in the household.

When symptoms such as high fever, headache, abdominal pain, vomiting, red eyes and chills are observed, the public should seek early medical consultation and treatment.

Lastly, DOH-5 reminds the public of dengue fever, an acute viral infection caused by a bite of mosquito infected with any of the four dengue viruses.

Dengue symptoms include sudden onset of high fever which may last from two to seven days, weakness, skin rashes, nosebleeding, abdominal pain, vomiting, dark colored stools and difficulty in breathing.

To prevent dengue fever, DOH-5 is asking the public to take part in its “4S” campaign. 4 S stands for “search” and destroy mosquito breeding places, “secure” self protection from mosquito bite, “seek” early consultation when signs and symptoms of dengue occur, and “say” yes to fogging as a last resort when there is an impending outbreak.

In fact, “fighting dengue is as simple as keeping the surroundings clean,” the DOH-5 concluded. (PIA-5)