The Department of Health on Thursday revealed that it is coordinating with the local government unit of Baguio City to investigate and control the spread of diarrhea in the city.

This comes after Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong declared an outbreak of acute gastroenteritis due to the sudden increase of diarrhea cases in the city.

Citing data from the Baguio City Health Office, the Health department said the increase in diarrhea cases started four days before Christmas Day last year.

In its report to the Center for Health Development-Cordillera Administrative Region, a total of 308 diarrhea cases were reported from 21 December 2023 to 7 January 2024.

“The age of cases ranged from 3 months to 92 years. Of these, 11 cases were admitted to surrounding hospitals. No death has been reported,” said the CHD-CAR.

Diarrhea — or loose and watery stools — is usually associated with either water- or food-borne causative agents.

Meantime, the local government of Baguio City, through its health office, is currently conducting water testing to determine the source of contamination.

In a television interview, Health Undersecretary and spokesperson Eric Tayag confirmed that a water source in Baguio City has tested positive for contaminants.

“Based on the preliminary result, there is one source of water that is contaminated. It tested positive,” Tayag said.

Pending final result of the ongoing epidemiologic investigation, the public in affected areas will be provided access to clean, potable water.

In the meantime, the DoH advised the public to always use clean water for drinking, cooking, washing, utensils, brushing teeth, and washing the hands and face.

“Water may be boiled for two minutes (start timer after water comes to a rolling boil). The use of chlorine-based water disinfection solution or tablets, if available in health centers, is also recommended,” it said.

“The public is also advised to report any change in color or odor of their household tap water,” it added.

“In case of loose or watery stools, the first aid is to ensure hydration. Drink replacement fluids — clean water, ideally with oral rehydration solution and consult a doctor,” said the DoH.