DISEASE AWARENESS: Iloilo City Sees Rise in AGE, HFMD Cases Due to High Reporting

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City Health Office (CHO) has reported an increase in cases of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) and hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), which officials attributed to improved public awareness and reporting.

Dr. Jan Reygine Ansino-Hortinela, Medical Officer III of the Iloilo City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, clarified that the rise in cases does not reflect a worsening public health situation.

“We should not be worried and say that the CHO lacks in this aspect,” she said during a press conference on Thursday, April 10.

“Actually, our reporting has just improved because the residents are already informed,” she added.

She explained that residents have become more proactive in seeking medical guidance and securing health permits, contributing to the increase in reported cases.

Ansino-Hortinela also urged residents to promptly report any instances of suspected food poisoning, especially if multiple people are affected.

“These cases are being investigated,” she said.

“Specimens are being taken so we can determine the exact bacteria or virus causing the symptoms.”

As of April 9, the CHO recorded 85 AGE cases in the city, a 67 percent increase from 51 cases during the same period last year.

AGE is typically caused by infections from viruses, bacteria, or parasites and is characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and pain.

Fever and appetite loss are also common, especially with bacterial infections.

For HFMD, 44 cases have been reported — 14 confirmed and 30 suspected — marking a 120 percent increase from the 20 cases logged in the same period last year.

HFMD is a contagious disease spread through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, stool, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces.

The illness mainly affects children and presents symptoms such as fever, mouth sores, skin rashes or blisters on the hands, feet, or buttocks, and occasionally a sore throat.

Ansino-Hortinela said toddlers are the most affected age group, with more cases reported among males.

“The most important thing is proper hygiene and proper reporting so that they will not get sick,” she said.

Arevalo recorded the highest number of HFMD cases, followed by Jaro I and Jaro II districts.