DSWD-DROMIC Preparedness for Response #16 on Typhoid Fever Cases in Region VII as of July 12, 2022, 6:00 PM – Philippines

I. Brief reminder on typhoid fever

• Typhoid fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi which is usually spread by ingesting food and water contaminated with human waste. Its common signs and symptoms include sustained high fever, headache, malaise (weakness), anorexia (loss of appetite), diarrhea or constipation, and abdominal discomfort.

• In order to prevent and control disease, the public is advised to take precautionary measures such as boiling water for drinking (when it reaches boiling point, continue boiling for two minutes or more ) or chlorinate the water; cook food thoroughly and always use a lid to prevent flies and other insects from contaminating it; carefully wash vegetables and fruits, especially those eaten raw; avoiding the consumption of street foods; washing hands with soap and water after going to the toilet and before eating; and keep the surroundings clean to prevent the breeding of flies.

Source: https://doh.gov.ph/node/286

II. Overview of the situation

• On May 28, 2022, an increase in typhoid fever cases was reported in Barili Municipality, Cebu in Region VII.

• Typhoid fever cases reported in Barili, Cebu are still considered as suspected cases as patients undergo further laboratory tests to confirm the bacterial infection.

• Children aged one (1) to ten (10) years were the most affected.

• Additional health workers have been deployed to verify the cause of typhoid cases in Barili, Cebu as well as additional equipment needed for the district hospital and infirmary.

• Aqua Tabs will be delivered to treat the water resources of Barili, initially believed to be the main cause for the spread of typhoid fever in at least five (5) barangays in the said municipality. Initial findings by the municipal health office pointed to poor sanitation as the probable cause.

• The Cebu provincial government distributed antibiotics, extra typhoid test kits and chlorine granules as an initial response.

• DOH Region VII delivered typhoid test kits, rectal swab kits and rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits to help the Barili Municipal Government respond to the increase in cases and for a further diagnosis of admitted patients suspected of having the disease.

• As of July 12, 2022, there were eight (8) active cases of typhoid in Barili and 14 active cases of typhoid in Negros Oriental.