PROVINCE OF SURIGAO DEL SUR

Barangay Nutrition Scholars of the Province of Surigao del Sur received the 2nd Half( July-December 2022) Honorarium The Provincial Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) Assembly was hosted by the Provincial Governor's Office's Nutrition Division on December 16, 2022. All 314 Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) in the province received honoraria totaling Php 6,000 for the second part of their studies (July to December) from Honorable Governor Alexander T. Pimentel, who also serves as the chair of the Provincial Nutrition Committee. As part of the” Always Yes to 1K Days (AY1K): First 1000 Days “initiative of the Nutrition program of the province of Surigao del Sur, every LGU also distributed Allen Sticks, Nutripaks to underweight children, and Dietary Supplementation for Pregnant Women. Governor Alexander T. Pimentel, many thanks! Padayun sa Paglambo, SDS! Serbisyong Dekalidad para sa Surigaonon....
Date Posted: January 6, 2023 | 6:28 AM

Provision of Dietary Supplementation- Nutripaks to Municipality of San Miguel As a part of the province of Surigao del Sur's “Always Yes to First 1000 Days Program (AY1K)”, which is headed by Honorable Governor Alexander T. Pimentel. Children who are severely underweight in pre-school are given nutritional supplements (Nutripaks) by the PGO-Nutrition Office in all LGUs of the province. The LGU of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur is the beneficiary for this week (January 3- 6, 2023) of the program. Padayun sa Paglambo, SDS! Serbisyong Dekalidad para sa Surigaonon!
Date Posted: January 6, 2023 | 6:37 AM

Health Events for 2023 Please be advised of the following Health Events approved by the Department of Health from January 2023 to December 2023.
Date Posted: January 10, 2023 | 1:43 AM

JANUARY - NATIONAL DEWORMING MONTH This January, we are observing the National Deworming Month. It aims to combat and reduce Soil Transmitted Helminth Infections (STH) through mass drug administration of anthelmintic medicines to at-risk populations such as children, pregnant women, food handlers, farmers and indigenous populations. This project is conducted twice a year, every January and July and is headed by the Department of Health in partnership with the LGUs, DepEd, schools and communities. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the school-based mass drug administration campaign for STH across the Philippines has been halted and an increase in STH infections is expected. Thus, other strategies for STH prevention such as proper water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) should be practiced to prevent further transmission of STH. Who is at risk of having Soil Transmitted Helminth Infections? Soil Transmitted Helminth Infections (STH) are parasitic infections from contaminated soil, food or water. It usually affects underprivileged communities with poor access to adequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Preschool aged children ages 2-4 years and school-aged children ages 5-12 years old are the most vulnerable to infection. How does STH affect a child’s growth and development? Worms are intestinal parasites that compete with nutrients and even steal nutrients from their host. It leads to malnutrition, weakness, feeling tired, impaired mental and physical development in growing children and poor performance in school and work. An individual may also be infected with multiple parasites which is associated with higher mortality rates and increased susceptibility to infections. How does an individual or child get worms? Worm eggs and worms can be found in contaminated soil or water which can enter the body through direct contact, unclean food or water and through the skin when walking barefoot on contaminated soil. Once inside the body, they travel into the intestines and multiply and release their eggs together with the feces. When these infected feces make their way to the water system through inadequate sanitation systems, it may infect other healthy individuals and the cycle repeats itself. How can we get rid of worms? Deworming tablets such as Albendazole and Mebendazole have been proven safe and effective against worms. They come in flavored chewable tablets. They stop the worms from growing and are excreted through the feces. However, children can be easily reinfected, thus the DOH recommends deworming school-age children twice a year. With the recent launch of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) 2030 roadmap, the WHO recommends that preschool aged children, school-aged children and women of reproductive age (aged 15–49 years, including pregnant women in their second and third trimester) receive regular treatment with deworming tablets. Aside from preventive deworming medicine, proper water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) should be practiced to prevent further transmission of STH. What are the expected side effects? Adverse side effects are rare and are usually caused by the dead worms such as abdominal discomfort, headache and nausea which can be managed by rest and giving clean water. In case of allergic reactions such as rashes and itchiness, anti-allergy medications can be given. How can we prevent children from having worms again? As part of the DOH WASH or the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for All Campaign, here are some steps on how to prevent having soil transmitted helminth infections: 1. Deworm twice a year. Deworming medications only kill the adult worms. Deworming twice a year helps kill the remaining worm eggs and prevents the spread and reinfection of other individuals. 2. Do not defecate in the open. Defecation in the open spreads worm eggs into the soil, water or environment which may come in direct contact with the skin, water system or food. 3. Wear slippers or shoes. This is to prevent hookworm infections which usually come from direct skin contact with contaminated soil. 4. Wash hands with soap and clean water. Since worm eggs can be found in contaminated feces, soil or water, it is important to wash your hands before eating to prevent infection. 5. Wash vegetables and cook them thoroughly before eating. Worm eggs can survive in the soil for months and can contaminate vegetables and fruits. Cleaning raw fruits and vegetables with clean water and thorough cooking (boiling point) will help kill the worm eggs and prevent infection. References: [1] Department of Health (n.d.) DOH Conducts National Deworming Month to Reinforce Prevention and Control of Soil-Transmitted Helminths. GOVPH. Retrieved from https://doh.gov.ph/node/10545 [2] World Health Organization (n.d.). Deworming in children. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/elena/titles/deworming/en/ [3] Department of Education (2018). WASH in Schools: Three Star Approach. Deworming: How to Reach the Stars. Metro Manila: Department of Education. Retrieved from www.deped.gov.ph [4] Mationg, M. L. S., Tallo, V. L., Williams, G. M., Gordon, C. A., Clements, A. C., McManus, D. P., & Gray, D. J. (2021). The control of soil-transmitted helminthiases in the Philippines: the story continues. Infectious Diseases of Poverty, 10(1), 1-26. [5] https://nnc.gov.ph/40-10-kumainments/6933-january-is-national-deworming-month
Date Posted: January 10, 2023 | 3:16 AM

Schistosomiasis Awareness and Mass Drug Administration Month January is Schistosomiasis Awareness and Mass Drug Administration Month! Schistosomiasis is a disease caused by the parasite Schistosoma japonicum also known as the blood fluke. It remains to be endemic in the Philippines especially in the Samar and Leyte provinces and Negros Occidental in Visayas. In Luzon, there are few endemic areas such as Mindoro Oriental, Sorsogon and Cagayan. How does an individual get Schistosomiasis? The parasites are stored in snails that live in waters, rice fields or rivers. Small parasites leave the snail and travel in water to infect humans by entering broken skin such as wounds. Once the parasite enters, it travels in the blood to reach the liver where they can settle and reproduce for years without being detected. Once they have produced abundant amounts of eggs, the eggs can travel in the blood and into the intestines where they are excreted in the stools. Thus, parasite eggs can be transmitted when an infected person defecates in open water. Who is at risk of having Schistosomiasis? The risk is higher for individuals living in the above-mentioned endemic areas mostly in Mindanao. Males have greater risk due to frequent water contact. Children aged 5-14 years old who often play in rice fields as well as adults are at risk of getting infected. What are the signs and symptoms? During the early stage, an individual may experience itchiness of the skin where the parasites entered, fever, abdominal pain and diarrhea. This is also known as the Katayama fever or “snail fever” where an individual experiences easy fatigability, respiratory symptoms such as coughing, joint pains, muscle pains and fever. As the infection progresses, the parasites may damage the liver leading to enlargement of the abdomen as seen in infected children. The worms may also affect blood circulation in the lungs which may cause wheezing and coughing. Mature worms may also block vessels in the brain and cause seizures, numbness and even stroke. How is it treated? Schistosomiasis is treated with antiparasitic medication such as Praziquantel which is considered safe and highly effective in single or divided doses against the Schistosome parasite. Side effects are due to the reaction of dying worms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea, decreased appetite, dizziness, headache and fever but they are only mild and transient. How can it be prevented? In endemic areas, the main control strategy is through mass drug administration of Praziquantel because some individuals may be asymptomatic. Main target groups are school-age children because they are the most vulnerable and to prevent possible short term and long-term consequences of schistosomiasis to their adulthood. To make these efforts sustainable, health education and investment in clean water supply and sanitation, environmental and snail control need to be a part of the overall strategy. The following are the tips for prevention of Schistosomiasis transmission: 1. Take antiparasitic medications such as Praziquantel when living or traveling to endemic areas. Antiparasitic medications are provided free through mass drug administration campaigns by the government every January especially in endemic areas. The medication is considered safe and effective and may cure early asymptomatic infections and prevent transmission. 2. Wear protective boots when walking into watery puddles or rice fields. Treat wounds (especially in the feet) as soon as possible and prevent contact with rivers or rice fields. Parasites are usually found in snail infested waters and may enter breaks in the skin. 3. Environmental control. This includes alteration of the snail habitat by: ● Draining breeding sites and proper management of irrigation systems, removal of shade and shelter from the sun by clearing vegetation around bodies of water ● Removal of shade of shade or shelter from the sun by clearing vegetation around bodies of water ● Prevention of breeding on the banks of streams or irrigation canals by lining these with concrete or making them more perpendicular ● Acceleration of flow of water by proper grading and cleaning of the stream bed and removal of debris ● Construction of ponds if the area cannot be drained ● Covering snail habitats with landfills 4. Do not defecate in the open. Defecation in the open spreads worm eggs into the soil, water or environment which may come in direct contact with the skin, water system or food. 5. Maintain a healthy body through good nutrition to reduce the risk for infections including parasitic infections. Maintaining a healthy body through a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can strengthen an individual’s resistance against infection and prevent severe forms of schistosomiasis. References: [1] Belizario VY, de Leon WU. (2013). Medical Parasitology in the Philippines, 3rd ed. University of the Philippines Press. Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines. [2] Riedel S, Morse SA, Mietzner T, Miller S. (2019). Jawetz, Melnick, & Adelberg’s Medical Microbiology, 28th ed. McGraw-Hill Education. United States of America. [3] https://nnc.gov.ph/regional-offices/mindanao/region-xi-davao-region/6944-january-is-schistosomiasis-awareness-and-mass-drug-administration-month
Date Posted: January 10, 2023 | 7:51 AM

Liver Cancer and Viral Hepatitis Awareness & Prevention Month This January, we are observing the Liver Cancer and Viral Hepatitis Awareness and Prevention Month .Worldwide, liver cancer is the sixth most frequently diagnosed cancer as of 2018. In the Philippines, liver cancer ranks fourth leading cancer type and ranks second in cancers that lead to mortality among Filipinos as of 2020. What is Liver Cancer? Liver Cancer or Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that develops from chronic liver disease especially in individuals with cirrhosis or liver damage or those with Hepatitis B infection. What are the risk factors of having Liver Cancer? In terms of sex, liver cancer is more frequent in men than in women due to exposure to environmental toxins and women tend to have protective effects from the hormone estrogen. Another risk factor is chronic infection with Hepatitis B virus that causes liver damage and injury which accounts for 50 percent of liver cancer cases and is the predominant cause in Asia and Africa. Lifestyle factors include chronic and excessive alcohol and tobacco use which is more relevant in individuals with a family history of liver cancer. How can Liver Cancer be prevented? Since Hepatitis B virus infection is the leading cause of liver cancer in Asia, the primary prevention of liver cancer is through Hepatitis B vaccination and timely treatment of Hepatitis B or C virus infection through antiviral treatments. Hepa B vaccines are given during the first 2 years of life. There are also catch-up vaccinations for unvaccinated children which are given in 3 separate doses. Adults may also go for vaccination or booster doses if needed. Below are some nutritional tips to maintain a healthy liver and prevent liver cancer: 1. Drink alcohol in moderation. Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with liver damage which may lead to liver cancer. This is due to the toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism - acetaldehyde which damages liver tissues. 2. Eat fatty foods in moderation and monitor your cholesterol levels. Excessive consumption of fatty foods especially from animal sources contribute to elevation of blood cholesterol levels. Excess fat may deposit in the liver when high cholesterol levels are left untreated for years. These fat deposits lead to fatty liver disease which may also lead to hepatitis or liver inflammation. Together with other lifestyle related factors such as alcohol consumption, this condition may contribute to liver cancer. 3. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to supply the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy liver. Vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables are needed for regenerating damaged cells in the body including the liver. Having a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle practices can help prevent or reduce the risk of developing cancer in later life. References: [1] World Health Organization (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Philippines Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/populations/608-philippines-fact-sheets.pdf [2] Schwartz, J.M. & Carithers, R.L. (2021). Epidemiology and risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma. UpToDate. Date Accessed 26 January 2022. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/epidemiology-and-risk-factors-for-hepatocellular-carcinoma?search=Liver%20cancer&source=search_result&selectedTitle=5~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=5#H146269848 [3] Jameson, J. L., Fauci, A.S., Kasper, D.L., Hauser, S.L., Longo, D.L., & Loscalzo, J. (2018). Harrison's principles of internal medicine, 20th ed. United States of America: McGraw-Hill Education. [4] Raymond, J. L., & Morrow, K. (2020). Krause and Mahan’s Food and the Nutrition Care Process E-Book. Elsevier Health Sciences. [5] https://nnc.gov.ph/regional-offices/mindanao/region-xi-davao-region/7000-january-is-liver-cancer-and-viral-hepatitis-and-prevention-month
Date Posted: January 10, 2023 | 7:53 AM

Provincial Blood Voluntary and Services Program of Provincial Health Office Received Awards Lives are saved by safe blood. Women who experience issues during pregnancy or childbirth, kids with severe anemia, frequently brought on by malaria or malnutrition, accident victims, people undergoing surgery, and people with cancer all require blood. Because blood may only be stored for a brief time before use, there is a persistent need for a steady supply. To guarantee that blood will always be accessible whenever and wherever it is required, a sufficient number of healthy individuals must donate blood on a regular basis. The gift of life—blood—is the most priceless gift someone can give to another. Donating blood can save a life, or perhaps multiple lives if the blood's components, red blood cells, platelets, and plasma, can be used separately to treat patients with different illnesses. Accordingly, the Honorable Alexander Ty Pimentel-led Province of Surigao Del Sur continuously conducted voluntary blood donation in all of its municipalities and cities through the Provincial Blood Voluntary and Services Program of the Provincial Health Office. With its active program implementation, the province received three (3) prestigious recognition from various organizations/agencies. First, as the Most Outstanding 143 Blood Recruiter of 2022 which was given by Philippine Red Cross-Surigao Del Sur Chapter last January 9, 2022 at Gold Bar Hotel and Restaurant, Tandag City. The second one was the Award of Recognition for Unwavering Support on RA 7719 given by Adela Serra ty Memorial Medical Center last December 2022. Lastly, granted by DOH Caraga was a Regional Award based on 2021 Achievement. Let’s Be a Hero! Donate Blood! Save a Life!
Date Posted: January 10, 2023 | 9:00 AM

REGIONAL MEETING-Provincial/City Nutrition Action Officers and District/City Nutrition Program Coordinators convene their First Meeting at Balanghai Hotel, Butuan City SDS PGO-Nutrition Office took part in the regional meeting of the district nutrition program coordinators and provincial/city nutrition action officers for the first quarter of CY 2023 on January 12, 2023 at the Balanghai Hotel in Butuan City. We appreciate you providing the nutritional updates and BNS kits, NNC Caraga, under the direction of Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Nino Archie S. Labordo! Padayun sa Paglambo, SDS! Serbisyong Dekalidad para sa Surigaonon! Caraga Can!
Date Posted: January 13, 2023 | 3:21 AM

1st Quarter Monitoring of NS1 Kit Last January 15, 2023, Mr. Rodrigo S. Gordo, Sanitation Inspection IV of the Provincial Health Office conducted the monitoring of the utilization and distribution of NS1 Kit (used as Dengue Rapid Test) at the following facilities: Bislig District Hospital Hinatuan District Hospital Hinatuan RHU Barobo RHU Tagbina RHU NS1 test allows rapid detection on the first day of fever, before antibodies appear five (5) or more days later.
Date Posted: January 17, 2023 | 12:32 AM

PGSDS-PHO Congratulates Barangay Rizal of the Municipality of Barobo (ZOD-Certified Grade 1)! January 12, 2023 - The Provincial Verification Team of Provincial Health Office conducted Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) Evaluation in Brgy. Rizal, Barobo, Surigao Del Sur. The team was headed by Mr. Rodrigo S. Gordo, Sanitation Inspector IV of the said office. Barangay Rizal is composed of 476 households and 7 puroks. After the evaluation, said barangay was declared and given a Zero Open Defecation Status-Certified Grade 1. This means that all households have standard sanitary toilets. This activity aims to promote sanitation and prevents sanitary-related illness within the community. The said barangay received a Certificate of Appreciation and a sum of five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) from the Provincial Government of Surigao Del Sur Congratulations and keep it up, Barangay Rizal of Barobo,Surigao Del Sur!
Date Posted: January 17, 2023 | 12:53 AM

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