NEWSFLASH

PUBLIC WARNED AGAINST CHOLERA

Manila, April 25, 2000 - The Department of Health (DOH) is warning the public to guard against cholera and other food- and water-borne diseases that are common during the summer months.

Dr. Eric Tayag, DOH infectious disease expert, said cholera, hepatitis A, diarrhea and typhoid usually become rampant in summer and peak during the rainy season.

"Food and water-borne diseases are very common during summer because of improper food handling, especially when people are going out for a picnic," Tayag said.

Government-run San Lazaro Hospital has so far recorded a total of 223 cases of typhoid and 221 of cholera from January to April 21.

Although the figures were much lower compared to the same period last year, Tayag said, "the public must be aware of the possible risk and take the necessary measures to avoid food- and water-borne diseases."

He advised people to refrain from eating food that spoils easily. Tayag said food poisoning is also common during summer, when food spoils easier because of the heat.