PRC intensifies drive to fight WILD diseases in Mindanao

THE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has intensified its campaign against waterborne diseases like influenza, leptospirosis and dengue, collectively known as WILD, as heavy rains continue to batter Mindanao.

Increased transmission risks of WILD diseases are unfolding in several provinces of Mindanao as unprecedented flooding continues, the PRC said.

Likewise, the PRC has strengthened its implementation of its health campaign across different PRC chapters in Mindanao.

To shed light on the nature, risks, symptoms, and prevention of WILD diseases, PRC Mindanao chapters mobilized Red Cross 143 (RC143) volunteers to post and distribute brochures and flyers, disseminate information through SMS alerts and texts, and conduct health promotion sessions in Gingoog, Oroquieta, Tangub, Ozamis, Lanao del Norte, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro, Agusan del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Iligan City.

PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon reiterated the importance of preventive measures in controlling the transmission of WILD diseases.

“Mataas ang infections risk ng ganitong mga sakit [WILD diseases] sa mga komunidad na may baha dahil ginagawa itong breeding ground ng mga daga at lamok,” Gordon said.

In addition to health campaigns, the PRC Health Services sent Doxycycline, a prophylactic agent used for the treatment of leptospirosis, to Mindanao.

According to the PRC, an individual with open wounds or skin lesions can become infected through direct contact with water, soil, and mud contaminated with infected animal urine.

Without any immediate and proper treatment, leptospirosis can damage kidneys and cause liver failure. Children and pregnant women, however, cannot take the medication.

As of January 9, the PRC has also provided the following humanitarian aid to communities affected by floods caused by the shear line over the Christmas weekend:

191,650 liters of clean and safe water through its water tankers and bladders

psychological first aid to 2,714 adults and children hygiene education to 1,574 people hygiene kits to 446 families, jerry cans to 355 families

water search and rescue to 201 individuals, including children

sleeping kits to 360 families, nonstandard food ration and bread to 138 families

first aid services to 134 persons health education and medicines to 87 people.