- BERT BAYORAN
A cholera outbreak has been declared yesterday by Mayor Joedith Gallego in Brgy. Guinhalaran, Silay City, Negros Occidental, after the recent death of an 88-year-old resident.
Gallego said that the woman, who was already buried, tested positive for cholera, based on the results of a laboratory examination.
The Department of Health said it takes one case of cholera to declare an outbreak in a certain area.
Gallego said that samples taken from water sources in Brgy, Guinhalaran will be sent to Manila today, to check for presence of coliform bacteria that cause cholera. The city government will also inspect all water refilling stations in Silay.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholera. Most of those infected will have no or mild symptoms and can be successfully treated with oral rehydration solution, according to the World Health Organization.
Gallego also said they have a suspected case of cholera in Brgy. Lantad, Silay City, and the patient, who is now in stable condition, is being closely monitored by the City Health Office, pending results of the laboratory test.
Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Ernell Tumimbang, yesterday said they recommended the declaration of a cholera outbreak in Brgy. Guinhalaran and the checking of water sources and refilling stations.
Tumimbang stressed the need for chlorinating of water in identified areas where cholera exists, and boiling of water, if needed, for consumption.
He also recommended the activation of the local water drinking committee in Silay City./GB
