With the onset of the dry season, health authorities in Calabarzon are now cautioning the public about the health risks posed by rising temperatures, as well as communicable diseases brought by the dry spell.
In a recent statement, Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Calabarzon Regional Director Ariel Valencia reminded the public to take “proactive precautions” with the rise of illnesses caused by the El Niño phenomenon.
“The El Niño phenomenon greatly impacts public health, especially this summer season. We need to be proactive and take the necessary precautions with the rise of illnesses and diseases,” Valencia said.
These common illnesses include diarrhea, sunburn, asthma, fatigue, heat stroke, heat cramps, and exhaustion.
Meanwhile, Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health (RDRRM-H) Officer-in-Charge, Joehl Melchor Francisco, said dengue cases could also spike due to the “unpredictable” weather brought on by the El Niño phenomenon.
“These diseases are most likely to spread because of the high temperatures and increased presence of stagnant water, creating breeding conditions for disease-carrying mosquitoes and bacteria,” Francisco added.
Cholera, typhoid fever, and even vector-borne diseases such as dengue are also widespread during this season, prompting DOH to remind everyone to maintain good hygiene, drink an adequate amount of water, and use better food preparation and handling to prevent the spread of the illnesses.
The health department assured that they are committed to helping the community prepare for potential health issues that the El Niño phenomenon may cause.
(With report from PIA Laguna/OpinYon News Team)
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