TACLOBAN CITY – The presence of the potentially deadly disease schistosomiasis has been detected in 16 barangays of Tacloban City. This disease can quickly affect individuals but can be treated if discovered early through check-ups with a doctor.
According to Mel Maravilles, the Nurse Coordinator for Communicable Diseases at the City Health Office, symptoms of schistosomiasis include abdominal pain, headache, and vomiting. He emphasized the importance of consulting the nearest Health Center or the City Health Office for a blood test or examination to receive the necessary free government-provided medicine.
Maravilles stressed that individuals experiencing symptoms of schistosomiasis should not hesitate or be afraid to seek medical attention. The priority of the authorities is to maintain the confidentiality of patient's information when they come for treatment.
Additionally, Maravilles warned against waiting for the disease to progress to a severe condition, as it can cause damage to the body and even affect the brain.
People with open wounds or sores, especially on their feet, who are frequently exposed to floodwaters or water bodies where the schisto parasite is present are at high risk of contracting the disease.
The 16 barangays in the city identified as schistosomiasis endemic or with the presence of schisto are Barangays 3 and 3-A Nulatula, Barangays 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82 in Marasbaras, Barangay 84 Manlurip San Jose, Barangays 95 and 95-A Caibaan, Barangay 96 Calanipawan, Barangay 100 San Roque, Barangay 103-A Paglaum, Barangay 107 Sta. Elena, and Barangay 108 Tagpuro. —iTacloban (Source: CIO)