FCCS NEWSFLASH

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CAINTA HEPA OUTBREAK WORSENS

Cainta, Sept. 26,1997 - The Hepatitis-A epidemic among students of the Cainta Catholic College has downed 97 more, bringing the total number of afflicted victims in the school to 153.

Department of Health Secretary Carmencia Reodica said 17 other Cainta residents, whose homes are near the school, are suspected to now be carrying the disease.

Analysis by government inspectors showed that the school's three water tanks which supply water to the school canteen and drinking fountains were positive for coliform microorganisms. Since samples from the main waterworks system pipes were found negative for contamination, the water agency was cleared of responsibility for the outbreak.

The school's water tanks have been placed out of commission pending a thorough disinfection. Underground water pipes leading to the school's tanks are also being checked thoroughly.

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