Calabarzon warned vs post-flood diseases

MANILA, Philippines — Residents of Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), especially those living in areas recently hit by floods, have been advised to take precautions against water and food borne diseases, influenza-like illnesses, leptospirosis and dengue or “WILD.”

Several areas in Calabarzon, particularly Cavite were hit by floods over the weekend due to Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.

Ariel Valencia, chief of the Calabarzon health office, said these so-called WILD diseases are likely to surge during typhoons.

“The public should watch out for these diseases, especially those who are in evacuation centers. The rain and cold weather can cause colds, cough and fever, which can easily transmit from one person to another,” Valencia said.

He advised the evacuees to follow the protocol in controlling infection in evacuation centers.

“Handwashing, proper disposal of masks and physical distancing should be observed. Inform officials of evacuation centers immediately if you have symptoms of these diseases,” Valencia said.

Floodwaters cause cholera, leptospirosis and hepatitis-A as well as vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue, Valencia said.

He reminded the public to implement the enhanced “4-S” strategy in their households to prevent the spread of dengue: search and destroy mosquito breeding sites, implement self-protection measures, seek early consultation and support fogging/spraying in areas where dengue cases increased for two consecutive weeks.

Valencia stressed the importance of drinking clean and potable water and observing food safety measures to lessen the risk of cholera and diarrhea-associated complications and comorbidities.

He urged the public to refrain from wading in floodwaters to prevent getting infected with leptospirosis.