IN order to ensure the safety and well-being of the public, the City Health Office, in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) Region 10, on Wednesday launched an extensive surveillance program targeting individuals experiencing influenza-like symptoms such as fever, cough, colds, and others, particularly among children during this season.
Health officials said the main objective of this initiative is to provide the people with awareness and assurance in order to prevent the further increase of illnesses caused by viral and bacterial infections.
According to City Health Officer Dr. Rachel Dilla, there is currently no cause for concern regarding the Nipah virus, as there have been no official findings from the national DOH regarding this matter.
Based on information received from the DOH, the Nipah virus is currently resulting in an outbreak in one province in India, but the spread has been contained by their government.
Despite this, Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando Uy, through the City Health Office, strongly urges the public to adhere to minimum health standards such as wearing face masks and practicing regular handwashing.
City Mayor's Office Chief of Staff Shiela Lumbatan said to address the growing number of cases of influenza-like illnesses, Mayor Uy has issued Executive Order No. 290, which calls for the implementation of minimum public health standards in all public places and transportation within the city.
"This is in response to the fact that there has been an increase in cases of ILI this year compared to the previous year," said Lumbatan.
The executive order according to Lumbatan emphasizes the importance of wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing in public areas and vehicles, practicing proper hand hygiene, and following proper cough etiquette.
"These measures are crucial in preventing the spread of illnesses and protecting the health and well-being of the community," said Lumbatan.
It has come to our attention that some private schools in the city have opted to conduct online classes as a precautionary measure due to concerns about students experiencing fever, colds, and cough.
This decision aims to minimize the risk of transmission within the school environment and ensure the overall health and safety of the students.
Since yesterday, the CHO, in partnership with the DOH Region 10, is actively implementing a comprehensive surveillance program to monitor the occurrence of influenza-like symptoms in the community.
The public is urged to follow minimum health standards, including wearing face masks, practicing proper hygiene, and adhering to social distancing guidelines, the officials said.
"Through these collective efforts, we can protect ourselves and others from the spread of viral and bacterial infections, thus ensuring the safety and well-being of the entire community," said Lumbatan.
