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| A spike in cholera cases was recorded in the last month, with Eastern Visayas, Bicol Region, and Western Visayas registering the highest number of infections. |
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) reported on Tuesday, October 11, that it has recorded 3,729 cases of cholera since the beginning of the year. The number was 282% greater than the 976 cases recorded during the same period in 2021.
In a briefing, Acting Health Chief Maria Rosario Vergeire stated that most cases originated in Eastern Visayas, Davao Region, and CARAGA.
During the previous month, Eastern Visayas, Bicol Region, and Western Visayas reported the highest number of infections, totaling 258 cases.
Since January, 33 individuals have died due to cholera, an acute diarrheal infection caused by consuming contaminated water. Most cholera cases in the country involved children aged five to nine.
"The most common cause [of cholera] is obviously contaminated water. We are aware that during the rainy season, flooding occurs, and many people evacuate to evacuation centers. Our water systems are impacted by natural disasters," Vergeire said.
According to the acting health chief, local governments have not yet declared outbreaks because cases are still manageable. Vergeire stated, "When more local governments are involved, the national government steps in to manage and declare."
Cholera is characterized by the sudden onset of frequent, painless diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration.
To prevent cholera, the Department of Health advised the public to drink only safe and clean water, wash and cook food properly, wash hands with soap after using the restroom and before eating, and maintain a clean environment. —iTacloban (Source: PhilStar)