BAGUIO CITY – The City Health Services Office has warned the public against contaminated drinking water after 350 individuals were treated in hospitals for acute gastroenteritis here since December 21.
Acting City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said they are conducting an investigation after the number of acute gastroenteritis cases involving various food establishments here continues to rise.
Brillantes said the Sanitation Division of the CHSO has collected water samples from these establishments and has subjected them to testing and re-examination to determine the actual source and cause of contamination.
The Baguio Water District is also conducting its own analysis and investigation to help determine the cause of the problem.
Brillantes called on food establishments to serve purified or bottled water instead of tap water and filtered water pending the outcome of the investigation.
"We hope that all food establishments will work together to ensure the safety of their customers and prevent more incidents," said Brillantes.
She said every family here, even at home, should be careful in drinking water directly from the tap and encouraged residents to immediately consult when experiencing symptoms of acute gastroenteritis.