KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) -- “Skin, lungs, and stomach are the most affected parts during the summer season,” according to Dr. Charmaine Pearl Cedeño, medical officer of the Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) in the Soccsksargen Region, at a recent Kapihan with the media. 

As the summer season intensifies, the DOH also warns the public about the increased risk of summer-related diseases.

It said that with soaring temperatures and increased outdoor activities, there is a heightened concern for health issues that normally surge during this period.

“Kasabay ng pagpasok ng tag-init mayroon din po tayong biglaang pagtaas ng mga kaso ng mga sakit dito po sa Region 12, gaya ng mga skin diseases natin, respiratory diseases, and ‘yung mga gastrointestinal diseases po. So balat, baga at tiyan sila po yung pinaka naapektuhan ngayon pong summer,” Cedeño explained.

[With the onset of summer, we also have a sudden increase in cases of diseases here in Region 12, such as skin diseases, respiratory diseases, and gastrointestinal diseases. So the skin, lungs, and stomach are the most affected this summer.]

The DOH then advised residents to take precautionary warnings seriously and follow the recommended steps from authorities, while also expressing confidence that by staying informed and proactive, individuals can enjoy a safe and healthy summer season.

“Umiwas po tayo na magbilad sa araw between 10 to 1 p.m. and then magsuot po tayo ng kumportableng damit at higit sa lahat keep hydrated po tayo, uminom ng tubig para po maiwasan natin ang sakit during this season,” warned Cedeño.

[Let's avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., then wear comfortable clothes, and above all, keep hydrated and drink water to avoid contracting illness during this season.]

To combat these health risks, the DOH in the region recommended some preventive measures worth noting:

Stay hydrated 

Drink plenty of water, and avoid drinks with alcohol or excessive sugar.
Wear protective clothing. Light and loose-fitting clothing can help prevent heat-related illnesses and protect againstsunburn.
Eat healthy food. Ensure foods are prepared safely and kept at appropriate temperatures during outdoor activities.
Use sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 (sun protection factor) to protect skin against ultraviolet rays.
Remove stagnant water: Reduce mosquito breeding sites by eliminating stagnant water from containers in and around homes.

Government initiatives

As a safety net, the local government's health offices across the region are ramping up community outreach and education efforts to inform the public of the potential risks. 

The initiatives include public information campaigns on radio and social media, community workshops on heatstroke prevention, and increased monitoring of food safety at public events.

Also, the DOH has collaborated and partnered with the local government units to enhance surveillance of vector-borne disease carriers and deployed additional resources to ensure rapid response to outbreaks.

We assure the public that the agency remains committed to safeguarding public health and ensuring that everyone has the necessary information to prevent summer-related diseases, it further said. (AMB - PIA Region 12)