Rising Gastroenteritis Cases Prompt Emergency Response in City

January 10, 2024

BAGUIO CITY – The local administration has sounded an alarm over a gastroenteritis outbreak, with a startling 1,602 cases reported by Wednesday afternoon since the holiday season. Mayor Benjamin Magalong, in a live-streamed “Ugnayan” briefing, announced the outbreak, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Data from the local government unit (LGU) reveals that approximately 729 individuals, predominantly children, have sought hospital treatment. In response, Mayor Magalong has initiated a comprehensive investigation, including testing water from all 67 sources managed by the Baguio Water District (BWD).

Efforts are underway at three water testing facilities: the BWD laboratory, the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) laboratory, and the City Health Services Office laboratory, to analyze water samples. The mayor highlighted the use of total dissolved solid (TDS) testing equipment for immediate results, promising prompt action if standards are exceeded.

The investigation extends to multiple sources: BWD water sources, private water refilling stations, 218 food establishments identified as the last visited by the affected individuals, and 175 households reporting cases despite not dining out. Notably, 80 of these establishments are within SM City Baguio, while the remaining 134 are located elsewhere.

The city government has implemented a self-reporting system through a QR code for those experiencing gastrointestinal issues. This initiative aims to facilitate the investigation and gauge the outbreak’s extent.

Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, the head of the city health services office, advises the public against drinking tap water, recommending either mineral water or boiled water. She urges immediate medical attention for symptoms like diarrhea, headache, stomach pain, or vomiting to prevent further complications. Oral rehydration solutions are recommended for hydration and medical services sought for treating the underlying cause.

Interestingly, the issue traces back to as early as the 20th of December, but the bulk of the cases were reported only recently. Dr. Donnabel Tubera-Panes, head of the city’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, noted similar issues in residents of neighboring La Trinidad and Tuba, Benguet, leading to a collaborative effort with nearby localities to test their water sources, as mentioned by Mayor Magalong.

For additional information and further reading, refer to the original article here.