The El Nido health office has raised the alarm over growing public concern about reported cases of diarrhea, urging residents and tourists to observe precautionary measures to prevent further spread.
“The Municipal Health Office-El Nido, Palawan, has observed online comments highlighting concerns about cases of diarrhea in the municipality,” the MHO stated in an advisory released Tuesday.
Quoting the World Health Organization (WHO), the advisory explained that “diarrhea is usually a symptom of an infection in the intestinal tract, which can be caused by a variety of bacterial, viral and parasitic organisms. Infection is spread through contaminated food or drinking-water, or from person-to-person as a result of poor hygiene.”
The health office emphasized that efforts are already underway to address the situation but called on the community to do its part.
“We assure you that every effort is being made to mitigate the situation. But we also need your aid in taking a few simple precautions to protect yourself against the hazards of diarrhea,” it added.
To prevent further cases, the MHO outlined several key measures the public should follow, foremost of which is ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water.
“Ensure that the water you drink is safe and clean. If you are unsure about the quality of the water, bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute or purchase commercial water that has been filtered safely,” the advisory recommended.
The MHO also urged people to avoid eating unfamiliar or street foods prepared under unsanitary conditions.
“Always opt for freshly prepared food, make sure it has been thoroughly cooked to destroy disease-causing bacteria, and consume it immediately while it is still hot,” the MHO said.
Food safety was likewise highlighted, as authorities advised residents and visitors to refrigerate leftovers promptly, separate raw and cooked foods, and ensure meals are cooked at the correct temperature to prevent contamination.
Proper hygiene remains critical, the advisory noted. “Wash your hands when preparing food, before eating, and after using the bathroom to avoid food contamination.”
Finally, the MHO reminded anyone experiencing symptoms of diarrhea to seek medical help without delay. Early medical attention, they said, is key to managing the illness and preventing its spread.
As of this writing, local health officials have not released specific figures on the number of diarrhea cases recorded in El Nido, a premier tourist destination in Palawan that attracts thousands of visitors year-round.
However, the advisory suggests that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and implementing preventive measures to protect public health.
