BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental logged 40 typhoid fever cases from January 1 to 18 of this year, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) said.
The tally is 100 percent higher than the cases reported in the same period last year.
“The Province of Negros Occidental advises the general public to be aware of the increasing cases of typhoid fever reported in the province,” read part of the PHO advisory signed by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and released on Friday, January 31.
Typhoid fever is an infectious disease which is also known as enteric fever or just typhoid.
Caused by salmonella typhi bacteria, it transmits through contaminated food and water or through close contact with someone who is infected.
Signs and symptoms include sustained high fever, headache, malaise (weakness), anorexia (loss of appetite), either diarrhea or constipation, and abdominal discomfort.
Antibiotics may be given to adults as prescribed by the physician.
To prevent or control the rising cases, the PHO advised the public to:
* Avoid drinking untreated water. Boil water for drinking (upon reaching boiling point, extend boiling for two or more minutes) or do water chlorination.
* Cook food well and always cover food to prevent contamination from flies and other insects.
* Consume food within four hours of preparation. Otherwise, refrigerate leftover food.
* Avoid eating unsanitary street-vended foods.
* Wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating.
* Keep surroundings clean and free from garbage to prevent breeding of flies.
Gov. Lacson also urged local government units to activate food handlers class for vendors and food establishments./PN
