A local pathologist is advising the public to practice universal precautions like proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of stomach illnesses amid reports of diarrhea cases in the city.
Dr. Neal Rana, a pathologist and occupational medicine specialist, said yesterday, September 22, that diarrhea has many potential causes, including viruses, bacteria, or parasites, which can be transmitted through various modes.
“Hand hygiene, maghugas ug kamot, dili magpataka ug kapot sa baba kay usually ug mo limit ta pa borrow ug butang,” Rana said.
He explained that simple acts like borrowing a ballpoint pen or a chair could cause a virus to spread.
“Sometimes, labi nag viral cause sa amoeba hilig ka pa borrow ug ballpen ug chair unya gikan diay to sya nangilo, gikan diay to sya nagkapot sa (infected) nga surface, so pwede maka cause ug kalibang,” he added.
Rana also recommended wearing a face mask, noting that some coughs can spread viruses that lead to diarrhea. He reiterated the importance of cleanliness, exercise, and increased nutritional intake.
In response to the health concerns, some local restaurants have announced they will temporarily stop serving service water to ensure customer safety.
The Cagayan de Oro Water District General Manager, Engr. Edna Najeal, said Monday that initial water testing for contamination yielded negative results.
She added that a second round of testing is underway and that the agency is coordinating with the Department of Health-10 and the City Health Office.
