By JEN BAYLON

Typhoid fever cases in Negros Occidental have risen sharply in the first three months of this year, recording an 86.06 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.

According to the Provincial Health Office (PHO), 387 cases were reported from January 1 to March 29, significantly higher than the 208 cases recorded during the same time frame last year.

Kabankalan City recorded the highest number of cases, with 96.

It is followed by Hinoba-an town with 43 cases, San Carlos City (33), Sipalay City (27), Isabela town (24) with one death, Cauayan town (22), and Hinigaran town (14).

The disease has affected individuals aged between zero and 90 years old, with most patients falling within the age group of 11 to 20 years.

The PHO highlighted that typhoid fever, a bacterial infection commonly transmitted through contaminated food and water, remains a serious health concern in areas with inadequate access to safe drinking water and sanitation.

Public health officials are urging residents to ensure proper hygiene practices, consume treated water, and avoid potentially contaminated food sources to curb the spread of this life-threatening illness./JB, WDJ