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Advocates Philippines
Water Contamination Investigation Underway In Baguio City
Photo credit: Baguio PIO
In response to the recent outbreak of acute gastroenteritis declared by Mayor Benjamin Magalong on January 10, the Sanitation Division of the City Health Services Office, in collaboration with the Baguio Water District, conducted inspections on Thursday to assess water quality in various establishments across the city.
Authorities are currently analyzing water samples from these establishments to identify the source of contamination. The outbreak, affecting a significant number of residents, prompted the intervention of the Department of Health (DOH), specifically through its Epidemiology Bureau (EB) and the Center for Health Development Cordillera Administrative Region (CHD CAR).
The increase in diarrhea cases was first observed on December 21, 2023, according to preliminary findings from the Baguio City Health Office. From December 21, 2023, to January 7, 2024, a total of 308 diarrhea cases were reported, ranging in age from 3 months to 92 years. Eleven cases required hospitalization, though no fatalities have been reported.
While awaiting the final results of the ongoing epidemiologic investigation, the DOH urges residents to use clean water for various purposes, such as drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. In affected areas, access to clean and potable water will be provided to the public. Ongoing water testing is being conducted across the city.
As a precautionary measure, the public is advised to boil water for two minutes or use chlorine-based water disinfection solutions if available in health centers. Residents are also encouraged to report any changes in the color or odor of their household tap water.
In case of diarrhea, residents are urged to prioritize hydration by consuming replacement fluids, preferably clean water or oral rehydration solution (Oresol). Medical consultation is recommended for those experiencing loose or watery stools.
Authorities are currently analyzing water samples from these establishments to identify the source of contamination. The outbreak, affecting a significant number of residents, prompted the intervention of the Department of Health (DOH), specifically through its Epidemiology Bureau (EB) and the Center for Health Development Cordillera Administrative Region (CHD CAR).
The increase in diarrhea cases was first observed on December 21, 2023, according to preliminary findings from the Baguio City Health Office. From December 21, 2023, to January 7, 2024, a total of 308 diarrhea cases were reported, ranging in age from 3 months to 92 years. Eleven cases required hospitalization, though no fatalities have been reported.
While awaiting the final results of the ongoing epidemiologic investigation, the DOH urges residents to use clean water for various purposes, such as drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. In affected areas, access to clean and potable water will be provided to the public. Ongoing water testing is being conducted across the city.
As a precautionary measure, the public is advised to boil water for two minutes or use chlorine-based water disinfection solutions if available in health centers. Residents are also encouraged to report any changes in the color or odor of their household tap water.
In case of diarrhea, residents are urged to prioritize hydration by consuming replacement fluids, preferably clean water or oral rehydration solution (Oresol). Medical consultation is recommended for those experiencing loose or watery stools.
Jan 11, 2024
