Saturday, February 10, 2007
Public alerted on cholera
THE Department of Health (DOH) is on alert for the possible occurrence of cholera outbreak as the year 2007 is the next epidemiological cycle of the disease.
In this connection, a surveillance of water systems in the country is being undertaken to prevent the contamination of potable water with cholera, said DOH's Safe Water System Program Manager Dr. Madeline Retuta.
The surveillance is initially being done in Region 1 particularly in Pangasinan, La Union and parts of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte.
Cholera is an acute bacterial enteric disease caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the vibrio cholerae bacteria with a short incubation period from a few hours to five days.
In most cases, according to DOH the infection is asymptomatic or causes mild diarrhea, especially with organisms of the El Tor biotype while severe cases are characterized by sudden onset of frequent painless watery stools, nausea and profuse vomiting early in the course of illness.
In extreme cases, cholera is a rapidly fatal disease that a healthy individual may die within 2-3 hours if no treatment is provided, said the DOH advisory.
Immediate treatment of the disease include replacing lost body fluid by giving Oral Rehydration Solution (Oresol) or a homemade solution composed of 1 teaspoon of salt, 4 teaspoons of sugar mix to 1 liters of water.
However, if diarrhea persists, the DOH advised patients to consult their health workers or to go to the nearest hospital.
The disease can be prevented or controlled by drinking only safe and clean water. If unsure, boil drinking water and upon reaching boiling point, extend for two or more minutes. Water chlorination is also recommended.
Cholera can be further prevented by observing the following: keeping food away from insects and rats by covering it; washing and cooking food properly; sanitary disposal of human waste; using the toilet properly and cleaning it everyday; washing hands with soap after using toilet and before eating; and keeping the surroundings clean to prevent flies and other insects and rodents from breeding. (PIA)
For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Zamboanga. (February 10, 2007 issue)
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