BACOLOD City — The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has approved a proposed resolution urging residents to observe preventive measures against influenza amid concerns over the rising number of cases in the city.
Authored by Councilor Em Ang, chairperson of the SP Committee on Health and Sanitation, the resolution seeks to strengthen public awareness and encourage collective action to prevent the further spread of the illness.
The measure calls on the City Health Office (CHO), Department of Education, barangay officials, and media organizations to help disseminate preventive health information through schools, barangay assemblies, public markets, transport terminals, churches, and social media platforms.
It urges Bacolodnons to practice proper hygiene, observe cough etiquette, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from influenza.
Particular attention is given to vulnerable sectors, including children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with existing medical conditions, who face a higher risk of complications.
Under the resolution, residents are encouraged to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, and properly dispose of used tissues.
Those experiencing flu symptoms are advised to stay home and avoid exposing others to the illness. Parents are likewise encouraged to keep sick children away from school until they recover.
The measure also recommends wearing face masks when experiencing respiratory symptoms, caring for sick individuals, or staying in crowded and poorly ventilated places.
Residents are further encouraged to maintain good ventilation and regularly clean frequently touched surfaces in their homes and workplaces.
The resolution advises those with persistent symptoms to seek medical attention at the nearest barangay health center or hospital, particularly if they experience difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, or severe weakness.
It also encourages residents, especially those belonging to high-risk groups, to get vaccinated in accordance with Department of Health (DOH) guidelines.
The measure warns against self-medication and the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, which are ineffective against influenza viruses.
It cited the Local Government Code of 1991, which mandates local government units to promote public health and protect the welfare of their constituents.
Through the resolution, the city council seeks to encourage community participation in preventing influenza transmission and protecting public health./PN
