BACOLOD City – At least four residents of Barangay Manlucahoc, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental were reported to have tested positive for amoebiasis.
Data from the Sipalay City Health Office (CHO) yesterday morning also showed that 31 other residents are exhibiting symptoms of amoebiasis such as stomach aches and low bowel movement.
Dr. Florecio Juplo, Sipalay CHO head, said of the number, 10 are currently admitted at the city’s hospital, including the four confirmed cases.
Juplo said based on their investigation, it was found out that Barangay Manlucahoc residents get their water supply from a well.
The CHO, in coordination with barangay officials, initiated chlorination for the water source to prevent more cases.
Juplo added they are waiting for testing kits from the Provincial Health Office to conduct water sampling in the area and identify the source of the amoeba.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, amoebiasis is an intestinal disease caused by a one-celled parasite called Entamoeba histolytica.
The parasite lives only in humans and is passed in the feces of an infected person. A person gets amoebiasis by putting anything in their mouth that has touched infected feces or by eating or drinking food or water contaminated with the parasite.
Some people with amoebiasis may carry the parasite for weeks to years, often without symptoms, continually passing it in their feces.
Among the symptoms of amoebiasis include nausea, diarrhea, weight loss, stomach tenderness, and occasional fever.
Rarely, the parasite will spread to the body beyond the intestines, causing a more serious infection, such as liver abscess.
The symptoms may develop a few days to a few months after exposure but usually within two to four weeks.
Among the ways to prevent the spread of amoebiasis include proper hand washing with soap and water. (Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
