Waterborne disease downs 30 in Badian

CEBU, Philippines - At least 30 people landed in the hospital after they were hit by a waterborne disease in a mountain barangay in Badian yesterday.

Most of the victims were elementary and high school students of Barangay Tubod. They were rushed to the Badian District Hospital for vomiting, diarrhea, fever and headache.

Rose Jao of the Provincial Epidemiological Surveillance Unit said that Thursday afternoon, five victims were brought to the hospital. But the number increased yesterday.

Initial investigation disclosed that most of the victims had taken ice water, juice, and ice candy sold in the area.

This prompted the Integrated Provincial Health Office to conduct water sampling to determine the real cause of the disease.

IPHO chief, Dr. Cristina Giango, said she was informed by the sanitary inspector of Badian that foods were sold outside the school campus without permit.

The water source in the area was also being checked and chlorinated. 

IPHO personnel visited the households yesterday and urged the residents to boil the water for drinking.

The IPHO also provided medicine to the victims such as antibiotics, dextrose and oral rehydration solutions.

“As of now, the situation is under control,” said Jao, who visited the area yesterday.

Giango said that she will augment personnel today to assess the situation.

 Third district Rep. Pablo John Garcia immediately talked to Badian Mayor Robburt Librando on the assistance he is giving.

Garcia was in the neighboring town of Alcantara yesterday when the news broke out.

“We assured him of assistance for the victims, will coordinate help through IPHO,” Garcia told The FREEMAN in a text message. — /LPM (FREEMAN)