Public Health warns about health risks during the rains

The Ministry of Health recommended that the population take the necessary preventive measures to avoid illnesses caused by the recent rains across the country. It explains that, due to the accumulation of water and improper food handling or consumption of contaminated water, cases of dengue, leptospirosis, and acute diarrheal disease (ADD), among others, could increase.

The Health Agency emphasized that during the rainy season, there may be an increase in acute respiratory illnesses and epidemics. In this regard, people need to follow local recommendations for both prevention and treatment if they develop symptoms.

Authorities recommend drinking only potable water and avoiding water from unknown sources. They reminded everyone that, if potable water is unavailable, it must be purified by boiling, filtering, or applying 5 drops of chlorine per gallon and letting it sit for 30 minutes. This eliminates contaminants, reducing the risk of illness and health problems.

It also recommends washing and keeping kitchen utensils clean, eating safe foods and storing them properly, washing canned food before opening it, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, avoiding contact with contaminated water or animal feces, and avoiding exposure to factors that can cause leptospirosis.

Remind the public to consistently wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom, before eating, and before handling food.

Likewise, use tissues when sneezing to prevent the spread of flu viruses.

Proper waste disposal is also essential. Do not place garbage bags on the sidewalks during rain; instead, place them in containers or wait for the garbage trucks to arrive.

It instructs people not to self-medicate. Suppose they experience fever, diarrhea, vomiting, respiratory illness, or general malaise, among other symptoms. In that case, they should immediately go to the nearest health center, as it is properly stocked with the necessary supplies, equipment, and medications to address any eventuality.

In that same order, he urges maintaining special care with risk groups such as the elderly, people with chronic diseases and mental health disorders, and people with disabilities.

The health agency urges the population to adopt these measures and stay informed through official sources, such as the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET) and the Emergency Operations Center (COE).