By Nanette Guadalquiver
BACOLOD CITY – The City Health Office (CHO) here issued an advisory on Tuesday regarding increasing cases of typhoid as reported by its epidemiology and surveillance unit.
Data showed that from Jan. 1 to March 22, some 27 cases of this infectious disease also known as enteric fever, were reported, higher by 145.5 percent compared to only 11 cases during the same period last year.
“Go to the nearest barangay health station or center, or consult with your personal physician if experiencing signs and symptoms of typhoid fever,” Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO Environment Sanitation Division, said.
Symptoms include sustained high fever, headache, malaise or weakness, loss of appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and abdominal discomfort.
Antibiotic treatment is given by a physician upon consultation.
Typhoid is caused by salmonella typhi bacteria, which spreads through contaminated food and water or through close contact with someone who is infected.
In its advisory, the CHO said prevention includes washing hands with soap and clean water after using the toilet and before eating, as well as, drinking only clear water, if unsure, boil water for three minutes or do water chlorination.
Cook food well and always cover food to prevent contamination from flies and other insects and thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables if to be eaten uncooked, it added.
CHO data showed only one case was recorded from March 16 to 22 and three cases each on March 9 to 15 and March 2 to 8.
Meanwhile, the CHO reported 74 cases of rotavirus, the most common cause of severe diarrhea among children below five years old, from Jan. 1 and March 22.
Top risk factor for rotavirus is poor sanitation and hygiene leading to contamination of food and water, the health office said. (PNA)
