The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas warned the public against “WILD” diseases this rainy season.
DOH-6 regional epidemiologist Dr. Glen Alonsabe said WILD is an acronym for waterborne-diseases, influenza, leptospirosis and dengue.
An example of waterborne-disease is diarrhea which can be acquired from drinking unsafe water. Thus, it is important to make sure that the water used in the household is not contaminated,
Alonsabe said.
It is still and always necessary to follow the minimum public health standards to avoid influenza and at the same time coronavirus disease, which share almost the same signs and symptoms.
Moreover, to avoid leptospirosis, Alonsabe said the best prevention is to avoid wading in floodwaters or swamps.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. Humans become infected through direct contact with the urine of infected animals or with a urine-contaminated environment.
The bacteria enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.
As to the dengue, the 4S strategy is always the best prevention. The 4S strategy stands for “search and destroy” mosquito breeding places; “self-protection” from mosquito bites; “seek early consultation” when signs and symptoms of dengue occur; and “say yes to fogging” as a last resort when there is a looming outbreak.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection causing a severe flu-like illness that could sometimes be fatal. Its carriers are day-biting mosquitoes (Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti) that live and breed in clean, stagnant water.
Alonsabe noted that the hospitals in Western Visayas are now overwhelmed because of COVID-19 infections, and these WILD diseases during rainy season will be an added burden to the health facilities if ever.
Thus, he advised the public to be careful and take necessary precautions to avoid these diseases.
“Kabay pa indi na pagdugangan ang problema ta,” said Alonsabe, referring to the depleting hospital beds in the region. (Glenda Tayona)/WDJ