Be on alert on rainy season diseases – health office

In Kalibo, C. Laserna area near the Aklan River is prone to flooding during rainy season. The public is advised to avoid wading in flood waters to prevent being infected by leptospirosis / PHOTO AKLAN FORUM

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Provincial Health Office (PHO)-Aklan has warned the public of common diseases that may arise during rainy days.

In a radio report, Provincial Health Officer I Dr. Cornelio Cuachon, Jr. said the public should be on guard of the common diseases such leptospirosis, dengue, water-borne diseases and influenza with the onset of rainy season.

People who have open wounds on their feet or legs and who are wading in flood waters are at risk of being infected by leptospirosis, a disease caused by Leptospira bacteria from rat urine.

Although, there are no reported cases of leptospirosis in Aklan, the public should be fully aware how to prevent the disease.

Dengue, also a common disease in tropical countries during rainy season, is transmitted through the bite of mosquitoes. 

Cuachon advised the public to search and destroy breeding sites of mosquito like water containers, flower vases, old rubber tires, empty cans and surroundings to prevent the spread of dengue in the barangays.

Food and water-borne diseases caused by contaminated food and water are also prevalent  in the province. Many people also can fall ill to cough, colds and influenza during rainy days.  

“People should see a doctor or have check-ups with rural health centers and out-patient department in public hospitals if symptoms manifest in common infections,” Quachon added. 

Meanwhile, the Department of Health also advised the people to boost their immune system by eating the right food, getting enough sleep and drink vitamins and maintain good personal hygiene to prevent common diseases.