Philippine Daily Inquirer Digital Edition

PREVENTING WATERBORNE DISEASES

By Din Villafuerte @INQ_Property Sources: Inquirer Archives, Webmd.com, Healthline.com

It was all over the news last week when residents braved the heavy rains and floods to get a COVID-19 jab in one of the vaccination sites in Manila. While the duty and willingness to get vaccinated is without a doubt commendable, one couldn’t also ignore how many are risking their health just to get inoculated.

The nonstop rains have once again turned many areas of the country into breeding grounds of diseases. Apart from the usual colds and flu, we need to be wary of other health concerns such as dengue, leptospirosis and gastrointestinal infections.

DENGUE

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Empty out those tin cans, discarded tires, unused buckets and other containers that may have inadvertently collected stagnant water. Clogged rain gutters could also become breeding areas for mosquitoes so make sure to clean these out as well.

Protect yourself from those pesky—and dangerous—mosquito bites with insect repellents. There are a myriad of products—from sprays and lotions to stickers—that are easily available in the market.

If assailed with dengue, get enough rest and make sure to drink enough fluids. Hydration is key. Take paracetamol for headaches and body pains.

LEPTOSPIROSIS

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection one can get through rat urine. As much as you can, avoid wading through flood waters, especially if you have an open wound on your foot or leg. If you have no other choice but to do so, make sure that you’re wearing proper rain boots to lessen the risk of exposure.

Wash your feet and legs thoroughly with soap and water after wading through floodwaters. Physicians usually prescribe prophylactic antibiotics after, the dosage of which depends if one is considered low, moderate or high risk. Your best bet would be to tell the doctor or healthcare worker immediately after you’ve been exposed to floodwater.

GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS

Another common illness that comes with the rainy season, gastrointestinal infections are caused by contaminated water or food. Soothe your upset stomach by steering clear of food that is rich in fiber. Stick to

food that is gentle on the tummy such as bananas, rice, toast, crackers and chicken broth. Keep hydrated with water, sports drinks and oral rehydration solution to help your body replace lost electrolytes.

MACE APP

If you are experiencing flulike symptoms with fever, muscle pains and headache, consult a doctor immediately. Medicard Philippines has made it easier to consult with its trusted team of health experts through the MACE app. Download the app on your smartphone and get in touch with your Medicard-accredited doctor right from the safety of your home. MACE allows you to make appointments, request for lab tests and consult via Medicard Telemedicine. The app is available for free on Google Play and App Store.

PROPERTY

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2021-07-31T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-07-31T07:00:00.0000000Z

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Philippine Daily Inquirer