No HFMD Outbreak in E.B. Magalona, Mayor Says
By Glazyl M. Jopson BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Matthew Louis “Matt” Malacon has assured residents of E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, that there is no cause for panic despite reports of suspected hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in eight barangays. Malacon said the cases remain unconfirmed and are still undergoing laboratory testing by the
By Staff Writer
By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Matthew Louis “Matt” Malacon has assured residents of E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, that there is no cause for panic despite reports of suspected hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in eight barangays.
Malacon said the cases remain unconfirmed and are still undergoing laboratory testing by the Department of Health.
In the meantime, he directed Municipal Health Officer Dr. Edmundo Janeo Jr. to intensify efforts to verify the reported cases.
As a precaution, classes in all day care centers and schools with suspected infections were suspended from July 10 to 11 to allow for disinfection.
Disinfection procedures are being conducted in accordance with DOH protocols, in coordination with the Provincial and Municipal Health Offices.
The mayor reminded residents to observe proper hygiene to prevent HFMD and other viral or bacterial infections.
As of July 9, a total of 18 suspected HFMD cases had been reported in the municipality.
Barangay Alicante recorded five cases, while Tabigue and Tuburan had three each.
Two cases were reported each in Nanca and III-Poblacion, and one case each in Damgo, Gahit and Tanza.
“This issue is concerning, and we are doing everything possible to prevent the spread of these suspected cases,” Malacon said.
He emphasized that the municipal government does not want to incite fear.
“We don’t want Saraviahanons to panic,” he said.
Malacon clarified that no HFMD outbreak has been declared in E.B. Magalona.
He explained that the authority to confirm or declare an outbreak lies with the Municipal Health Office, in line with DOH Department Memorandum No. 2023-0103.
As of July 11, no official outbreak declaration had been made by local health authorities.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Marvin Malacon has been appointed to lead a special task force to investigate the issue.
“We will make an official announcement once we receive confirmation from the DOH or the Provincial Health Office,” the mayor assured.
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