Gastroenteritis cases in Baguio City now at 2,764

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 12) — The cases of gastroenteritis in Baguio City rose to 2,764, its local government reported on Friday.

The local city health office said there were 8 new cases of gastroenteritis as of 8:15 a.m.

Data from Jan. 11 showed that there were 2,302 cases of gastroenteritis. The entry of backlogs resulted in an additional 462 cases in the Jan. 12 data.

As many as 609 people have sought medical consultation since Dec. 2, according to the city’s health office.

It added that majority of the reported cases still have symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, loss of appetite, and nausea. Most of those infected are from ages 20 to 24.

Despite over 2,000 cases, Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the number of cases detected every day is decreasing.

“It appears that our containment and preventive measures are effective, so now we are focusing on the investigation,” Magalong said.

From Jan. 8, which recorded the highest number of cases of 486, cases have gone down to 308 on Jan. 9, 130 on Jan. 10, and 43 on Jan. 11.

The US National Center for Biotechnology Information defines gastroenteritis as an infection or inflammation affecting the stomach and intestines when contaminated food and water are ingested.

Magalong earlier declared an outbreak of gastroenteritis in Baguio City.

One sample from a water source in a local establishment tested positive for bacterial contamination.

Salvador Royeca, general manager of the water district, earlier told CNN Philippines’ News Night that 63% of those who have suffered gastroenteritis ate in a food establishment in the city.

In a statement, SM Baguio said it is working with the local City Health Office in conducting water tests to identify potential risks.

“SM City Baguio is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its stakeholders amid a possible health concern reported in areas even outside the mall,” SM Baguio said.

As gastroenteritis may lead to dehydration, the Department of Health advises patients to drink water, ideally with an oral rehydration solution, and to consult a doctor for further medication.