Gastroenteritis, diarrhea cases among kids up

By April 23, 2017Inside News, News

THE summer heat has began taking its toll on the populace.

The Provincial Health Office already registered a 56% increase of cases of gastroenteritis in the province this year.

Dr. Ana de Guzman, Provincial Health Officer, said 3,298 cases of gastroenteritis have already been reported by R1Medical Center and 14 government and private hospitals.

Nine have died from it as of April 17.

The same period last year only registered 2,115 cases.

San Carlos City (347) have recorded the highest number of cases followed by Calasiao (257), Malasiqui (202), Mangaldan (167), Sta. Barbara (167), Urdaneta City (132), Lingayen (125), San Fabian (124), Binmaley (122), Bugallon (119).

De Guzman said, most of the victims are 1 year below up to 4 years old.

Meanwhile, Dagupan City reported 442 diarrhea cases and most were due to water contamination and poor hygiene.

PHO is also monitoring the cases of other sore eyes or conjunctivitis, heatstroke, dehydration and skin diseases, cases of rabies and jelly fish sting that normally occur during summer.

Dr. de Guzman advised the public to maintain proper hygiene, avoid direct heat of the sun, wear light clothing and avoid the sun from 10:00 in the morning up to 2:00 in the afternoon.

Drink plenty of water, bring sun protection like sunglasses, hat and umbrella, and use clean utensils and wash food and hands, and cook food properly to avoid food contamination.

She also warned against tendency of families to self-medicate and instead urged the public to consult a doctor. (Nora Dominguez)

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