DOH warns of rainy season illnesses, urges precautions

The Department of Health (DOH) issued a renewed warning on Monday about potential rainy season illnesses such as dengue, leptospirosis, influenza-like illness, and waterborne diseases due to ongoing heavy rains and flooding.

Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo emphasized the need for early medical consultation if symptoms appear during this period and advised boiling drinking water for at least two minutes.

Domingo specifically warned against leptospirosis contracted through contaminated floodwaters, noting that symptoms can take up to two weeks to manifest and suggested consulting a health professional even without open wounds.

He advised frequent handwashing as the best defense against influenza-like illness and reminded the public of 'taob, taktak, tuyo at takip' (overturned, shake, dry up, and cover) to prevent dengue.

The DOH also stressed the importance of community clean-up drives and household vigilance in preventing these illnesses while expanding hospital fast lanes and stockpiling medical supplies.

Local leaders were urged to amplify health warnings through various channels to ensure public awareness and safety.