DOH-CAR WARNS OF ‘WILD’ DISEASES THIS RAINY SEASON

June 8, 2025 Health Metro BLISTT

BAGUIO CITY

The Department of Health-Cordillera (DOH-CAR ) on Tuesday (June 3) warned the public of water-borne, influenza, leptospirosis, dengue (WILD) diseases this rainy season. Persons experiencing symptoms associated with these diseases are advised to seek immediate medical attention. “We are seeing a significant uptick (small increase) in disease cases, especially water-borne and vector-borne illnesses,’ said Dr. Annacris Kilakil, Medical Officer IV of DOH-CAR during the DOH’s Regional Benchmarking with media , government public information officers, and other stakeholders held on Tuesday (June 3) at the Garden Plaza Hotel here. Dr. Kilakil reminded public to be vigilant against water-borne illnesses such as diarrhea, typhoid fever and hepatitis, which are typically caused by the consumption of
contaminated water. “The public must practice vigilance in hygiene, water safety, and early consultation to avoid complications,” Dr. Kilakil said. The health official said that investigations are underway of 200 suspected cases of diarrhea in remote villages of Apayao (Kalayukay- Luna) and Kalinga, respectively. Preliminary assessments suggest water contamination, with laboratory tests ongoing to confirm the source. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officially declared the start of the rainy season on Monday (June 2) and urged the public to take measures to mitigate its health impacts.

Reanne Columbres/UC-Intern