Salud Bikolnon Edition No. 13 Jan-Mar 2016

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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SaludBIKOLNON

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REGIONAL OFFICE V Health Promotion Unit Legazpi City, Albay Tel. No. : (052) 483-5656 loc. 551 Email: dohbicolhpu@gmail.com

The COVER ACT EARLY. The Department of Health, in collaborative effort and initiative of the Philippine Society of Nephrology (Bicol Chapter), Department of Education, Bicol University, and selected public and private elementary schools, celebrates World Kidney Day on March 10, 2016.

According to the Philippine Society of Nephrology-Bicol Chapter, it has been noted lately that an increasing number of dialysis centers have been sprouting in the region – an indicator that there is a growing number of Bicolanos including children who are suffering from kidney failure.

Taking care of the youth is taking care of our country’s future.

NEXT Issue . . .

EDITORIAL

Board & Staff

Chairman Napoleon L. Arevalo, MD, MPH

OIC - Director IV

Vice Chairman Ernie V. Vera, MD, MPH, CHA

Director III

Members

TSEKAP. Health Secretary Dr. Janette Lorteto-Garin leads the turn over of the TSeKaP (or Tamang Serbisyo para sa Kalusugan ng Pamilya) Equipment Package to Barangay Health Stations and Rural Health Units in Bicol region. This aimed to equip Local Government Units with essential medical equipment that will allow them to provide basic health services to PhilHealth beneficiaries.

Norberto A. Balane, Jr., CPA, MPA Arnulfo C. Carandang, MD, MPH Alan Lucañas, MD Ms. Noemi A. Bron, HEPO III Mr. Kenn S. Nuyda, HEPO II

Editor-in-Chief Ms. Noemi A. Bron, HEPO III Associate Editor Mr. Kenn S. Nuyda, HEPO II Writer & Layout Artist Danica D. Caballero Photographer / Sharon B. Besmonte Circulation-in-Charge Crisostomo Dado, Jr. Contributors Ailene Magdamit

Twinkle Jean Pulmano - Lorilla

ENTERED AS SECOND CLASS MAIL At Legazpi City Post Office , Albay Under Permit No. 2013-22 on 25 September 2013

IN THIS ISSUE

4 ‘4S’: Key to avoid Zika virus 5 DOH Bicol welcomes new leadership 6 Firecracker injuries up by 38% 8 Bicol youth to engage in donor recruitment and blood donation

9 G6PD Deficiency awareness for parents 12 Last mile for leprosy-free Philippines 14 World Kidney Day spotlights children’s renal health

18 3rd Global Cup Tournament: It’s a hit!

20 DOH launches Oplan: Goodbye Bulate in Sorsogon

22 End rabies, Now Na!

Health Headlines

‘4S’:Key to avoid Zika virus “We should not worry or panic. Zika Virus is similar to dengue and chikungunya which our community is knowledgeable on preventing”, said Regional Director Napoleon L. Arevalo. “Zika virus is a mosquitoborne disease that can be controlled and prevented when we practice 4S in our everyday living. The first step to prevent the disease is within our own homes”.

The Department of Health Regional Office

of pregnant women affected

V reminds the public to remember and

with Zika virus who gave birth

practice the ‘4S’ against dengue thereby

to babies with microcephaly is

preventing Zika virus incidence as both

yet to be proven.

are transmitted by the same Aedes aegypti mosquito. 4S is a strategy which means (1) Search & destroy mosquito breeding places, (2) Self-protection measures, (3) Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than 2 days, and (4) Say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak.

Aedes aegypti mosquito.

C u r r e n t l y, there is no available vaccine to prevent Zika

virus.

the of

However, media

symptoms Zika

when the World Health

virus

Organization announced

disease can be with

RD Arevalo encourages the public to

managed

eliminate all possible breeding grounds

pain and fever medicines like paracetamol,

common

it

as

a

Emergency

Public of

Health

International

of mosquitoes like bottles, tires, flower

concern last February 1, 2016. In the

vase, and anything that can hold stagnant

Philippines, a documented case of Zika virus

water. “We should not give them a chance

infection was traced in Cebu City in 2012.

to multiply because the disease they carry will put our health at risk”, he explains. “In addition we can wear long sleeved shirt, pants and long socks, applying insect repellent lotion, or use mosquito nets

“Indeed, our health begins from our own backyards.”

The said 15-year-old boy fully recovered after 3 weeks of continuous bed rest and medication. After yielding negative from tests on dengue and Chikungunya, he was tested positive for Zika Virus. Fortunately, there had not been any case detected since

when sleeping. The practice of 4S will not only benefit your family but also the entire

RD Arevalo

community”.

then.

RD Arevalo reiterated that we should be vigilant and be ready should the disease

The common symptoms of Zika virus disease

affect our locality by having a commitment

are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis

rest, plenty of water and nutritious diet.

(sore eyes). Other symptoms may include

If symptoms continue to occur beyond 2

muscle pain, headache, and vomiting. The

days, it is advised to consult to the nearest

illness is usually mild with the symptoms

health facility.

Kontra Dengue (ABKD) strategy. Indeed,

The said disease has been recently a

/ddc

lasting from several days to a week. Some cases do not manifest any symptom. Cases

4

highlight

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

in practicing the 4S and having our community engage in the Aksyon Barangay our health begins from our own backyards.

DOH Bicol welcomes new leadership As the Department of Health Regional Office V welcomes the New Year, comes a change in management when OIC-Regional Director Dr. Emilia P. Monicimpo was appointed to the newly established DOH NIR (Negros Island Region) and Assistant RD Napoleon L. Arevalo as the new OIC-Director IV of Bicol. and duties as the new head of DOH Bicol. “I am more than happy to serve my home. Let us all work together to achieve better health outcomes in the region”, he said.

Dr. Arevalo , a true blooded Bicolano, has been in public service for more than 25 years.

Born and raised in

Donsol Sorsogon, he came from humble beginnings and rose from TURN OVER. Outgoing RD Monicimpo hands the lighted candle as a symbol of her responsiblities as regional director to ARD Arevalo.

the ranks to become OIC-Regional Director. He served the Provincial DOH of Sorsogon as a medical specialist and team leader for 24 years until he was called to serve in the regional office as the ARD in 2013 by then director Dr. Gloria J. Balboa.

His years in service have honed him to become a public servant who is passion-driven and works beyond call of duty./ddc

THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE. RD Monicimpo poses a high five with the Local Health Support Division as a souvenir photo during the turn over.

After her eight-month stay, outgoing

impress and move RD Monicimpo

RD

her

with messages full of affection and

responsibilities to ARD Arevalo during

gratitude. “I thank you all for the love,

the general assembly last January 11,

friendship and hard work. It has been

2016. “My stay in Bicol might be short

a fruitful year for me in Bicol”, she

but worthwhile memories will always

responded.

Monicimpo

entrusted

be remembered. I will always be a Bicolano by heart”, RD Monicimpo said.

The DOH RO V staff did not fail to

The newly appointed OIC-Director IV, ARD Arevalo, assured everyone to give his best in the responsibilities

Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo, MPH OIC-Director IV of DOH RO V.

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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Firecracker injuries

up by 38%

The Department of Health Regional Office V revealed during the press conference on January 6, 2016 that the number of firecracker injuries rose from 89 to 123 cases or 38% increase. Out of the provinces in the region, Albay had the most number of cases which was 52.4% while Catanduanes had the least comprising only 1.6% of the total. the rise of injury cases.

The situation calls for a better approach in implementing the advocacy. It was suggested during the press conference that agencies involved in the monitoring of firecracker-related injuries must continue to do the same advocacy in the next few years until such time it has penetrated into the behaviors of individuals. “It is only through the change of behavior or Media practitioners and participants listen to the report of Dr. Evy Sarmiento, Medical Officer IV, on the number of fire injury case in Bicol region. It was noted that piccolo is still the number one firecracker used.

Using firecrackers and fireworks during

advocacy campaign which aims to

the festivities of the holidays especially

reduce firework and firecracker injuries

during the New Year has already become

during the holiday season. In fact, the

a tradition to Filipinos. DOH Regional

regional office launched the campaign

Director Dr. Emilia P. Monicimpo

through a press conference and a

stressed that parents play a vital role

school launch as early as November

in giving guidance to their children

to strengthen the advocacy.

on the decision of using firecrackers

school launch took place in three

during the Yuletide season. Educating

central schools in key cities of Albay to

parents and encouraging them to use

intensify the campaign in the province

alternative ways to celebrate is one

with the goal of reducing its annual

strategy. “Elementary and high schools

firecracker injuries. The DOH together

in the region must be provided with

with the Department of Education,

the TV/Radio/Print Advertisement for

Bureau of Fire Protection,

APIR as early as June, in this way, the

Philippine

teachers can explain the materials to

Police

school children”, she added.

Information

The DOH annually implements Aksyon Paputok

6

Injury

Reduction

(APIR)

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

National

and

Philippine Agency

did the best efforts in

the

campaign

advocacy despite

attitude of oneself that we can change the way of celebrating Christmas and New Year. Despite the APIR campaign was launched on the 3rd week of November, there were still a lot of cases recorded and the majority of which were on the streets affecting children of 7-12 years old”, said Director Aida

The RD Monicimpo explains to the media that to totally eliminate firecracker injuries there is a need for a strong political will.

Naz of PIA. The participants agreed that all local government units must be involved in the fight against firecracker – related injuries. “It is thru the LGUs political will that the injuries be prevented. For example, Davao City and Iloilo City have strong-willed LGUs that absolutely prohibit the use of firecrackers; hence, no incidences of injuries are noted in their city”, RD Monicimpo stated.

Community fireworks display was also cited as one of the best practices that would prevent injuries and lit up the celebration.

Media

partners

suggested

for

consideration of the Department of Interior and Local Government to allow barangays to activate their enforcement

Above pie chart illustrates the distribution of case as to age-group. The 7-12 age group takes more than half of the pie with 51% which is equivalent to 64 cases out of 123 cases of firecracker injury in 2015.

on banning the use of firecrackers

the concerned government agencies

among their residents. It was also

would be in perfect attendance so that

pointed that for the next consultative

all areas of concern will be addressed./

planning and media conference, all

ddc

Nine nominees for 1st Bayani ng Kalusugan Award The Department of Health Regional

Camarines Sur, Ms. Roslin Adra of

The first national search for the heroes

Office V received nine nominees in

Aquinas University Hospital and Dr.

of health shall honor and reward

the Bicol Region for the first Bayani

Jesus Camposano of San Jacinto,

20

ng Kalusugan Awards, a search made

Masbate. There are also two nominees

institutions that positively impacted

to honor individuals and organizations

from the region for the organizational

the health sector in the last five years

who exemplify in the service of

category namely, Rural Health Unit

from July 2010 to April 2016. The

providing quality health care to Filipinos

of Viga, Catanduanes; and Juan M.

achievement of the nominee must

in achieving the Universal Health Care

Alberto Memorial District Hospital.

not have been recognized previously

(UHC) or Kalusugan Pangkalahatan.

“Bicol is one of the top performing

The following are nominated for the

regions when it comes to health and by

individual category: Dr. Gibson Gabitan

recognizing these exemplary individuals

of Juan M. Alberto Memorial District

and organizations we not only inspire

Hospital, Dr. Robert John S. Aquino of

others to excellence in health service

Viga, Catanduanes, Barangay Captain

but also promote improvement of

Jona Peñalosa of Paulba, Ligao City,

the wellbeing of Bicolanos”, Regional

Ms. Edwina Corañes of Sorsogon City,

Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo said.

individuals,

organizations

and

by other national and international award giving bodies. Winners would be awarded with a trophy and cash prizes on June 2016.

Individual

awardees would receive P 200,000.00 and

winning

Non-Government

Organizations or institutions will bag P 400,000.00./ddc

Hon. Mayor Raul Velarde of Tinambac,

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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Bicol Youth to engage in Donor Recruitment and Blood Donation It only takes blood donation by one percent of the population in order to suffice the supply needed by a country. But, what if we don’t even reach that one percent?

To mitigate this and involve the youth to raise awareness on voluntary blood donation, the Department of Health Regional Office V through the Non Communicable Disease Prevention and Control cluster conducted the “Orientation on Donor Recruitment and Retention Integrating Healthy Lifestyle and HIV Prevention” which targeted youth leaders of organizations from different schools on February 11-12, 2016 in Legazpi City. It aimed at the promotion of the importance of the Voluntary Blood Donation as the safe blood source for the community and to integrate the promotion of healthy lifestyle and HIV prevention.

MORE THAN A PLEDGE. (left) Regional Director Dr. Arevalo enlightens the participants on the importance of blood donation. (right) Participants sign the commitment wall as support and pledge of advocating voluntary blood donation.

“We targeted our youth in this campaign because they are enthusiastic, active, outgoing and receptive to new ideas. They also comprise 25% of our population who are at low risk of transfusion transmittable infections.

They are healthy individuals

who are much qualified to donate blood”, Ms. Windalyn Baluis, Regional Donor Recruitment Officer, explained.

The activity is a prelude to the celebration of World Blood Donor Day and National Blood Donor’s Month in July where

“The youth has a vital role in our endeavour

By the end of the orientation, youth leaders

the participants are to join the “Donor

for safe and sufficient blood supply in Bicol

formulated their action plans for their

recruitment and retention challenge” which

by inspiring their peers to voluntarily share

donor recruitment & retention activities

has been the highlight of the celebration.

blood”, Regional Director Dr. Napoleon

which indicate their engagement and

The orientation served as their training on

Arevalo said during his message.

“I

support to the program. The said action

recruiting voluntary non-remunerated blood

challenge you all to embrace healthy

plan is included in the criteria of the donor

donors to ensure the safety of blood for

lifestyle into your lives, as this will greatly

recruitment challenge. The group shall be

transfusion. The challenge however is their

benefit you and it is the key requirement

required to document their activities and

creativity on conducting their own mass

for potential donors. By donating blood, we

showcase it through a five minute audio-

blood donation activity and how they will

can help and save the lives of patients in

visual presentation to be highlighted during

be able to recruit and retain their voluntary

need thereof.”

the World Blood Donor Day celebration on

non-remunerated donors.

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YOUNG ADVOCATES. (left) A group of participants brainstorm for their unique donor recruitment activity. (right) Ms. Windalyn Baluis gives input on donor recruitment and retention.

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

July 14, 2016./ddc

G6PD Deficiency awareness for parents

by Twinkle Jean Pulmano- Lorilla NBS Nurse Coordinator

For the safety and health of children diagnosed with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, the Department of Health Region V through the Family Health cluster held the G6PD Deficiency Awareness Parents Forum in Naga City last February 19, 2016. This was attended by 39 parents and their children diagnosed with the deficiency through newborn screening.

During the program a pediatrician from Bicol Medical Center, Dr. Mary Ann Cyril Mesalucha, discussed the facts on G6PD including its cause and triggers, consequences of hemolytic crisis and its management. Dr. Mesalucha emphasized the avoidance of triggers which includes refraining

from

self-medication

and

informing health practitioner during health consultation about the case of their child to guide them in choosing the medicines which will not promote crisis.

The nutritionist/dietitian of the BRTTH Continuity Clinic, Ms. Cecile Belen, presented the role of nutrition in the management of the disease and enumerated the variety of food items, beverages and common grocery supplies which can trigger hemolytic crisis. the Continuity Clinic at the Bicol Regional

CONSULTATION. (top) Dr. Marive A. Flores, with the assistance of DOH RO V Family Health Cluster, gave advices to parents during the on-site consultation of patients after the forum. (above) Participants with the Family Health Cluster pose for a photo.

Teaching and Training Hospital, conducted

are not alone in their struggle since they

as follows: fava beans (bagiuo beans),

an onsite consultation to see the status

are with their co-parents and government

legumes, soya/soy sauce, peanuts, green

of the patient with G6PD Deficiency. Their

agencies that are in support to them, as

peas, menthol flavored candies and

team also utilized this activity to see

exemplified in this forum.

food, blue food coloring or other artificial

Dr. Marive A. Flores, Follow-Up Head of

patients with congenital hypothyroidism who were unable to come to their clinic for follow-up consultation.

G6PD Deficiency is a hereditary abnormality in the activity of the G6PD enzyme in red blood cells. This enzyme is essential for

coloring agents, blue berries, red wine, bitter melon (ampalaya), refined sugar, high-fructose corn syrup and white flour.

There are also certain drugs like ascorbic

The activity implicates the importance

assuring a normal life span for red blood

of newborn screening as a tool for early

cells, and for oxidizing processes. Its

detection and prevention of congenital

deficiency may provoke sudden destruction

metabolic disorders. The parents realized

of red blood cells and lead to hemolytic

The signs and symptoms of hemolytic

that with newborn screening they were able

anemia with jaundice.

anemia are paleness, dizziness, headache,

to save their children from the consequence of mental retardation and death. The event was a meaningful experience for them and their children. They are able to see that they

Those with this deficiency should avoid eating foods that can trigger the symptoms and cause hemolytic crisis.

These are

acid, paracetamol and some antibiotics that should be avoided.

tea-colored urine, and abdominal or back pain or both. Hemolytic anemia, when very severe, can cause mental retardation and even death.

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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Training of trainers to increase NBS coverage

by Twinkle Jean Pulmano- Lorilla NBS Nurse Coordinator

Intended to capacitate provincial trainers of the newborn screening program, the Department of Health Regional Office V, in coordination with the Newborn Screening Center – National Institutes of Health, conducted the 1st batch of Newborn Screening (NBS) Training of Trainers last March 22-23, 2016 in Legazpi City.

The training was attended by 28 NBS coordinators and point person to be capacitated

in

providing

technical

assistance on the provision of quality NBS trainings to facilities in the region, thereby, increasing the NBS coverage of Bicol. As part of the training module, participants’ knowledge on NBS was assessed helping the facilitators gauge the flow and depth of discussion. The comprehensiveness of the training focused on: NBS background and flow of operations, nature and management of NBS Panel of disorders, Region V Unsatisfactory and Unfit data, and the issues and concerns of conducting NBS

Dr. Marive Flores, follow-up head of BRTTH NBS Continuity Clinic, explains the nature and management of NBS Panel of disorders for the regular six tests and Expanded Newborn Screening to participants.

trainings.

The participants conducted an actual heel prick demonstration at the Pedia Conference Room of the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital. They also visited the NBS Continuity Clinic at the Out-patient Department of said hospital where they were oriented on the operations of the clinic like the collection of samples for confirmatory testing as well as client consultation and follow-up.

Participants were certified as trainers when

they

successfully

pass

all

requirements for NBS ToT and attain an average score of 85%.

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Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

NBS Coordinators demonstrate the actual heel prick method to the participants at the Pedia Conference Room of BRTTH as part of the training of trainers.

Meet ARD Vera The Department of Health Regional Office V welcomes the appointment of Dr. Ernie V. Vera as the OIC-Assistant Regional Director last January 18, 2016.

Prior to his appointment, Dr. Vera

Standing six feet tall, he has been

was the division chief of the Essential

living his ‘saintly life’ and serving the

Non-Communicable Disease Division,

public in good faith. He now resides in

Disease Prevention and Control Bureau

his hometown, Tabaco City, Albay, with

of DOH Central Office. He’s been in

his family.

public service for 27 years. He spent his early years in service as a medical specialist for the Tuberculosis Control Service for 12 years.

On March 4, 2016, his appointment as acting director III of DOH RO V has been approved. /ddc

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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Health Events Last mile for leprosy-free Philippines

LEPROSY-FREE. (left) Assistant Secretary Dr. Nestor Santiago Jr. gives emphasis on the early detection and treatment of leprosy during his message. (right) The participants together with (L-R) DOH Regional Director Dr. Arevalo, Ms. Fajardo of Novartis, ASec Santiago, Govenor Joey Sarte Salceda and ARD Vera pose for a photo after the unity walk for leprosy.

“Let us support the campaign to increase public awareness and reduce stigma and discrimination to Leprosy patients. We want Bicolanos to live a quality life free from the burden of this disease,” said Regional Director Napoleon L. Arevalo.

The Department of Health, together

Jr., RD Arevalo, Assistant RD Ernie Vera

cases as of 2015. The World Health

with the Novartis Foundation and

and Novartis Health Care Philippines

Organization 2012 report listed new

the Provincial Government of Albay

Corporate Affairs Head, Ms. Christine

cases in Metro Manila with 99 cases

conducted the last mile for leprosy at

Fajardo. The event is a unique way

detected and 9% prevalence rate;

the Xterra triathlon, an international

to remember a forgotten disease like

Nueva Ecija (Lupao) with 60 cases and

triathlon event, last February 7, 2016 at

leprosy to generate awareness about

4% prevalence rate and Cebu City with

Cagsawa Ruins, Daraga, Albay as part

the existence of the disease in the

37 cases and 27% prevalence rate.

of the celebration of the World Leprosy

community and to reduce the stigma it

This incidence places the country in the

Day. The event themed with ‘Running

brings to patients.

lead in terms of new cases detected in

the last Mile for Leprosy’ calls for public consciousness on the cause to totally eradicate leprosy in the Philippines.

12

Leprosy has been eliminated as a public health burden in the Philippines however, recently it is reemerging with

The activity was graced by DOH

pockets of cases in some areas in the

Assistant Secretary Dr. Nestor Santiago,

country including Bicol region with 57

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

the western pacific region. The high prevalence rate indicates that there exists a transmission of the disease in the community.

It was emphasized during the activity

potential collaboration with partners at the global, national and local levels.

The participants signed a commitment wall for leprosy and had a symbolic hand to hand “United for the Last Mile” walk with the private sector, the community together with people cured from leprosy.

Leprosy is a disease caused by the UNITED FOR THE LAST MILE. Participants from the private sector and government agencies walk hand in hand with leprosy patients for the advocacy to end stigma and for a leprosy-free Philippines.

bacteria Mycobacterium leprae that affects the skin, nerves and eyes.

Although it is not highly infectious, it is transmitted via droplets from the nose and mouth during close and frequent contact with untreated cases.

The disease is curable but when left untreated it can cause progressive and permanent damage to the skin, nerves, limbs and eyes resulting to permanent disability./ddc

MAKE LIGHT. (left) Ms. Christine Fajardo of Novartis Health Care Philippines gave highlights the vision and advocacy of Novartis. (right) A former leprosy patient, Mr. Alexander Cellan, enlightens the audience of his experience of the disease and his journey of becoming leprosy-free.

that leprosy is curable and treatment of which is free. “Early detection and treatment of leprosy is very important to lessen the burden of the disease to the patient”, said ASec Santiago.

“Treatment for leprosy is free and is available at the Bicol Sanitarium in Camarines Sur.” A leprosy patient of the said hospital gave his testimony to further enlighten the crowd of the disease. “I encourage those who experience the symptoms to seek immediate medical care”, said Mr. Alexander Cellan.

an athlete needs to persevere and intensify efforts to reach the finish line. Likewise, DOH is intensifying the efforts and developing better strategies of the leprosy program to find and cure the remaining unseen

RD Arevalo explains to participants the curability of leprosy.

and untreated cases in achieving a leprosy-free country.

Dedicating the

last mile for leprosy is a symbolic gesture of support from the triathletes who will run the international competition.

The run intends to define a concrete path toward leprosy-free Philippines

The last mile is the most difficult but

and forge commitment

rewarding part of the race where

on

developing

the

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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The Cover World Kidney Day spotlights children’s renal health

START YOUNG. This year’s World Kidney Day highlights the importance of starting healthy lifestyle at a young age as its theme is “Kidney Disease and Children: Act Early to Prevent it”. The students from Bicol University Integrated Laboratory School smiles while listening to lectures on the importance of their kidneys.

“We should start young when it comes to health especially renal health because kidney disease is the seventh cause of death in the country. Taking care of our kidneys and having a healthy lifestyle while we are young will lead us to a healthier future”, said Assistant Regional Director Dr. Ernie V. Vera during the celebration of World Kidney Day on March 10, 2016 at the Bicol University Integrated Laboratory School grounds, Legazpi City.

The

celebration,

headed

by

the

information

campaign

to

eleven

Elementary

School,

Department of Health Regional Office

elementary schools in the province

Albay Central School, Sto. Domingo

V with the collaborative effort and

namely, Polangui Elementary school,

Elementary

initiative of the Philippine Society of

Nephrology

Department University, and

(Bicol

Chapter),

of

Education,

Bicol

and

selected

public

private

elementary

schools,

was themed: ‘Kidney Disease and Children: Act Early to Prevent It’. This underscores a reminder that we must learn the habit of taking care of our

“Renal disease is highly preventable when we start young and practice healthy living”.

Oas North Central School, Daraga North

from childhood.

Central School, Binitayan Elementary

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

Piamont

and Sunshine International School.

The program highlighted the awarding of winners of the poster making contest and lectures on the functions and health of the kidneys. To confirm support to the World Kidney Day, the activity concluded with a ceremonial ‘MOVE YOUR FEET’ through a dance

that adult renal disease can be traced

The activity was a simultaneous

School,

Elementary School, St. Agnes Academy

kidneys at an early age for it was found

14

Bagumbayan

School, Bagtang Elementary School,

exercise which invited the participants to get up and get moving to celebrate their kidneys. This was a reminder that regular exercise and physical activity

EDUCATE. (left) ARD Dr. Ernie Vera gives interesting facts about the kidney to students. (right) The winners of the poster-making contest proudly show their certificates after the awarding with ARD Vera, Dr. Virgillio Gil and Dr. Lorna Wong.

ADVOCATE HEALTH. (left) The students of Bagtang Elementary School parade along the DOH compound for the celebration of World Kidney Day. (right) The poster of Freal Javen Del Castillo, which won the 1st place for Grade four category at BUILS, shows the right kinds food to eat and foods to avoid for maintaining healthy kidneys.

can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and obesity which are the leading causes of kidney disease.

The disease is a global health concern with over 2 million people worldwide including children who are currently undergoing dialysis or kidney transplant to stay alive. In fact, it is the seventh cause of death in the Philippines and an estimated 23,000 Filipinos underwent dialysis due to kidney failure in 2013.

Some children develop it at an early

turn to page 23. . .

age while others have it since birth.

“Renal disease is highly preventable when we start young and practice healthy living”, DOH Regional Director Napoleon L. Arevalo emphasized in an interview. “It is essential that we turn to next page

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

15

from page 15 educate children on the early detection of renal disease and the importance of healthy lifestyle. We must inculcate this to the young so that they will develop a healthy habit that they will continue until old age which will not only ease them from the burden of kidney related disease, but also other illnesses.”

It has been noted lately that an increasing number of dialysis centers have been sprouting in the region.

According to the Philippine Society of Nephrology-Bicol Chapter, this is an indicator that there is a growing number of Bicolanos including children who are suffering from kidney failure.

This may be the result of unhealthy practices acquired in early childhood such as eating too salty, fatty and sweet foods, not drinking enough water, holding urination and lack of good personal hygiene.

“Let us support this advocacy by having regular exercise and healthy lifestyle.

Exercise does not only mean extensive workout, it can be in a form of simple household chores like ‘pagwawalis’ and ‘pagbubunot’. Likewise, this should go along with proper diet,” RD Arevalo explained.

The World Kidney Day is a global health awareness campaign celebrated every year on the second Thursday of March in more than 100 countries on 6 continents. It focuses on the vital functions of the kidneys and reducing the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health problems worldwide./ddc

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Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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3rd Global Cup tournament: It’s a hit!

To strengthen the camaraderie of government agencies, DOH RO V held the 3rd Global Cup basketball and volleyball invitational tournament for blood donors from February 16, 2016 until March 4, 2016 at the Healthy Lifestyle Complex, DOH compound. This annual event is an awaited event for sports lovers and attached agencies who willingly donate their blood. To add to the enthusiasm, the management included a volleyball competition for women this year.

GAME’S ON. (left) Atty. Leo Imperial, commissioner of Global Cup, officiates the jump ball to officially start the games. (right) A volleyball player of Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital spikes the ball of DOH ROV team.

A total of eight government agencies

and Philippine National Police (PNP).

It was a tight fight for the DOH RO V for

joined the basketball event and four

The teams were required to donate a

being first runner-up in both basketball

entries for women’s volleyball.

minimum of ten bags of qualified blood

and volleyball events.

The

basketball category is divided into two sub-categories in order to establish fair

and

one stone.

regained

the

blood donation, healthy lifestyle and

The participating teams for this year

title as champion for the National

the anti-smoking campaign. It also

were: the Department of Health

Government Agency category while

strengthens partnership and inter-

(DOH), Department of Social Welfare

Philippine National Police was able to

government camaraderie”, said Atty.

and Development (DSWD), Bangko

defend their reign as the champ for

Leo Archival Imperial, the newly

Sentral ng Pilipinas BSP), Philippine

the uniformed personnel category

appointed commissioner of the Global

Army, Bicol Regional Training and

after the 14-day competition. For the

Cup tournament.

Teaching Hospital (BRTTH), Bureau

women’s volleyball, the Bureau of Fire

more government agencies next year

of Jail Management and Penology

Protection out-scored the contenders

for a more exciting tournament and

(BJMP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)

for being the 1st volleyball champion.

encourage

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

The

Bicol

Teaching

Regional

“Global cup is hitting three birds with

Training

competition.

18

as registration to the competition.

Hospital

We promote voluntary

more

“We hope to tap

voluntary

blood

donors.”

The event was not only about brawn and game technique but it was also of beauty. Each team supported their muse during the photo-liking contest at the social media page of Global Cup but overall it was Ms. Nica De Guzman of PNP who earned 3,665 likes on her photo. Ms. Jeline Camille De Padua of DOH and Ms. Sendee Lyn Mesa of DSWD followed with 3,417 and 983 likes, respectively.

The season’s theme, ‘Give Love, Give Blood Always’, promotes and encourages non-remunerated blood

donors to donate. To be a qualified

hepatitis, chronic alcoholism and those

blood donor, one must be healthy,

who had severe loss of weight for the

weighs at least 50 kilograms, and

past 5 months.

must be 18-60 years old or if below 18 has parental consent.

A person

cannot donate if he/she is pregnant, consumed alcohol for the past 24 hours, has fever, had tattoo or ear pricking within the past 24 months and is newly discharged from surgical operation. Some people who engage to risky behaviors such as drugs and having multiple sexual partners are not allowed to donate blood.

This

also includes those who currently have cancer, lung disease, HIV/AIDS/STDs,

“We should commit to regularly donate blood. This should not only be just because we had this tournament but it must be practiced in our lives.

Voluntary blood donors are heroes who sacrifice a part of themselves to give life to others without expecting something in return”, DOH Regional Director Dr. Napoleon Arevalo said during the closing ceremony.

Winners of the tournament received their trophies and cash awards./ddc

SAAN MAAARING MAG-BIGAY NG DUGO? Maaaring pumunta sa mga blood service facilities ng mga sumusunod: 1. Bicol Regional Blood Center (BRBC), Legazpi City TWO YEAR CHAMP. The Philippine National Police team with ARD Dr. Ernie Vera, RD Dr. Arevalo, Atty. Imperial and Dr. Editha Moreno smiles for a photo. PNP defended their championship title for the uniform personnel category and grabbed the Ms. Global Cup 2016 title.

2. Bicol Medical Center, Naga City 3. Philippine Red Cross Maaari din sa mga Mobile Blood Donations na ginaganap sa mga sumusunod: > Municipal Health office > City health office > Eskwelahan/ Unibersidad

VOLLEYBALL CHAMP. Atty. Imperial and Dr. Moreno (center) together with ARD Vera and RD Arevalo (left) awards the Bureau of Fire Protection as the Women’s Volleyball champion this year.

> Mga pribado at gobyernong tanggapan at iba pang sektor

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

19

DOH launches Oplan: Goodbye Bulate in Sorsogon The Department of Health (DOH) in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) conducted the National School Deworming Day (NSDD) dubbed as Oplan: Goodbye Bulate last January 27, 2016 targeting 1 to 4 years old children in the community and Kinder to Grade VI pupils enrolled in all public elementary schools nationwide.

Students of Bacolod Elementary School in Juban, Sorsogon simultaneously receive the deworming medicine during the National School Deworming Day.

NSDD in Bicol was formally launched

in children but also among women of

DepEd where teachers are given proper

with an integration of Schistosomiasis

child bearing age. DOH administered

orientation on the administration of the

Mass Drug Administration in Bacolod

albendazole (400mg) which is proven

drug.

Elementary School, Juban, Sorsogon.

safe and effective and as recommended

The program successfully dewormed

by WHO and as inspected by the Food

996,856 out of 1,125,307 or 88% of

and Drug Administration (FDA). This

enrolled elementary pupils and children

medicine is used worldwide and have

below 5 years old from the community

been through extensive safety testing

in Bicol.

and have been used with few and

Deworming is a strategy endorsed

20

minor side-effects.

“The parents and teachers must make sure that the children have their stomachs full before taking the medicine”, said Ms. Maria Francia Geñorga, DOH nurse coordinator. “It is also important that it is taken in the morning so that teachers and parents

by the World Health Organization

In 2015, Bicol region is the highest

have time to observe for possible

(WHO) in combating the burden of

in STH morbidity rate in the country

reactions”,

Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis (STH)

which is six out of ten children with

dizziness, vomiting, abdominal pain,

infections.

This infection can cause

Sorsogon province taking lead with

and headache are some of the normal

poor physical growth, poor intellectual

the most cases. DOH Regional Office

symptoms associated with deworming.

development in children and can result

V strengthened this year’s campaign

to anemia and malnutrition not only

with the intensified collaboration with

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

she

furthered.

Mild

“We hope for the continued support of parents by signing the consent

form of their children.�, said Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo during an interview. He reiterated that this endeavor will scale up efforts in improving the service delivery among children in Bicol.

This activity is a follow-up to last year’s NSDD which dewormed 11,470,245 out of 14,740,075 or 80% of enrolled students nationwide for the school year 2015-2016. In Bicol, only 76% of enrolled students from public schools were dewormed last July 29, 2015. DOH bi-annually conducts free deworming to school children RIGHT SIZE. Students find the perfect pair from the colorful slippers distributed by DOH RO V as part of the Oplan: Goodbye Bulate.

nationwide to combat against the risk of STH infections. The next NSDD will be conducted in July. /ddc

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

21

Health Advisory

End rabies, NOW NA! March is Rabies Awareness Month and this year we celebrate it with the theme “End Rabies, Now Na!”. The Department of Health and Department of Agriculture work hand in hand in this endeavour in raising awareness and strengthening partnerships in the elimination of human rabies in the country and declaration of a rabies-free Philippines by 2020.

Rabies is a fatal disease transmitted to humans through animal bites or even scratches most commonly by dogs.

It is vaccine preventable, but once infection begins, death is inevitable.

In the Philippines, rabies continues to be a public health problem and is responsible for the death of 200-300 Filipinos annually, with children having the highest risk.

“None of these deaths should have occurred since we have the necessary interventions

to

prevent

rabies

such as promotion of responsible pet

ownership,

early

consultation

when bitten by animals and timely administration of vaccines.” said Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin.

A total of 783,663 animal bites across the country were registered in 2015.

This is 10% higher than in 2014 with 683,802 cases. This trend was also reflected in the National Capital Region (NCR) with 83,950 animal bites in 2014 increased to 131,508 in 2015.

In Bicol, there is also an increase from 31, 647 cases in 2014 to 40, 057 in 2015.

The increase in the number

of reported cases could be attributed to the improved surveillance and

22

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

services which enabled bite cases to

all over the country, 32 of which are in

seek treatment at established public

Metro Manila.

Animal Bite Treatment Centers (ABTC) and/or private Animal Bite Centers (ABC). However, this data also reflects that there is a need to strengthen responsible pet ownership to prevent animal bite cases. As of March 2016, a total of 484 ABTCs/ABCs are located

In 2015, DOH recorded NCR with the most number of rabies exposures with 131,508 cases followed by Region 4A with 102,512 cases; Region 7 with 78,598 cases; Region 3 with 71,239 cases; and Region 6 with 65,087 cases.

Since 2008 up to 2015, there were 38 areas in the Philippines declared rabies-free by DOH and Department of Agriculture. In 2015, Tingloy, Batangas; Agutaya, Palawan; Balabac, Palawan and the province of Dinagat Island were the latest areas added in the list.

The DOH, through the National Rabies Prevention

and

Control

Program

(NRPCP) in partnership with different agencies and local government units continue to implement strategies and activities to respond to this public health problem. One strategy is the provision of Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in all DOH-recognized ABTCs/ABCs, and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

“March

was

declared

as

Rabies

involving all concerned sectors. Most

especially for high risk individuals

Awareness Month by virtue of Executive

importantly, it relies on cooperation

and students in high incidence zones.

Order No. 84. Elimination of rabies can

from our communities and from each

Meanwhile, PhilHealth through its

only be achieved through a joint effort

and every one of us,” Garin concluded.

Animal Bite Treatment Package (ABTP) defrays the cost of PEP treatment among all qualified members.

The DOH last year added P69.5 million to the DA’s budget of P40 million to help achieve the targeted 70%

from page 15. . .

coverage for dog vaccination. As of 2015, 3,419,771 dogs have been vaccinated, which represents 44.11% of the total estimated dog population.

The DOH has lined up various advocacy campaigns to disseminate information about the illness and how to prevent it.

The DOH also encourages pet owners to have household pets vaccinated at designated time periods. Lastly, the public is warned against approaching stray and possibly rabid animals and reminded to immediately go to the nearest ABTCs/ABCs when needed.

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

23

Feature DOH’s UHC-Hi-5: Healthcare for Everyone

by Ailene Bitancor Magdamit Provincial DOH Office-Sorsogon

The Department of Health (DOH) recently took a step further by implementing its newest program, the Universal Health Care High Impact Five (UHC HI-5)— which discusses priority issues that include Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS); Service Delivery Network; Maternal Care; Infant Care; and Child Care.

Launched last May 2015 in Legazpi, Albay, UHC HI-5 intends to serve the public in terms of health facilities and services; to produce the greatest improvements in health outcomes and the highest impact on the priority, vulnerable

population,

with

focus

on five critical UHC interventions prioritizing the poor, providing tangible outputs which are “felt” within a breakthrough period of 15 months through

synchronized

nationwide

implementation of activities.

DOH V-PDO Sorsogon Development Manager Officer IV, Glenda G. Barlin, said that UHC HI-5 enables them to strengthen their relationship to the

(left) Ms. Paloma Paraiso, a resident of Sorsogon, expresses her gratitude to the UHC HI-5 program of DOH through an interview.

people and learn more about their needs.

“UHC HI-5 helps us in so many ways especially in addressing what the public needs. It’s not everyday that we physically reach out to them, but with this program, it helps us to know them even more and formulate activities that would really guide us as we lend a hand to them,” she said.

For almost 10 months now, UHC HI-5

24

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

has been conducting projects, activities

As

part

of

the

program,

and operations that are beneficial

also ventured into pre-natal and

to the public. Just last January, DOH

immunization

V held the National Harmonized

based delivery innovation, making it

School Deworming at Bacolod Juban

more accessible to the community.

Elementary School, participated in

Human resource facilities were also

by the school’s grades 5-12 pupils.

completed to augment the needs of

This program was also held in several

the Local Government Unit (LGU) in

communities in Sorsogon province

terms of public medical equipment.

which dewormed toddlers aging 1-4

These undertakings had made a huge

years old.

impact placing Sorsogon Province at

service

and

DOH facility-

the #2 spot in school and community based deworming in Bicol Region.

As of March 2016, over 300 families are estimated beneficiaries of these programs. This includes families with children aging 0-10 years old with guardians earning below minimum to minimum wage.

Paloma Paraiso, housewife, mother of six (6) said that UHC HI-5 is a great deal for them as it provides them free medicines and facilitate their concerns regarding health care.

“Namamatian mi man ang serbisyong ipinapaabot samo ning DOH, lalung-lalo na an libreng bulong asin kumpletong

Students of an elementary school in Sorsogon enthusiastically show their deworming medicine before drinking it.

bakuna kan mga aki. Nagpapasalamat ako na may UHC HI-5,” (We benefit

Also, UHC HI-5 will be conducting

the ones that should be acted upon

from the services that DOH is giving

more programs to realize its goal to

immediately. We will be taking every

us, especially free medications and

solve priority healthcare issues in

step on how to solve healthcare

complete vaccination for the children.

problems slowly but, indeed, surely.

We are very grateful that UHC HI-5 is

There are a lot of plans that are about

here.) said Paraiso.

Hence, DOH ensures the public that interventions will continuously be done in order to spread the message that they would like to convey which is to produce the greatest improvements in health outcomes and the highest impact on the population within a short period of implementation.

“Although we were given a very short period to reinforce what UHC HI-5 is all about, we did not consider it as a problem. Instead, we took the opportunity to act efficiently, productively and accurately in a very limited working time,” said Barlin.

“ We benefit from the services that DOH is giving us, especially free medications and complete vaccination for the children. We are very grateful that UHC HI-5 is here.” the country and to intensify regional operations and converge in priority poverty program areas.

“These priority healthcare issues are

to materialize as we go through this journey,” said Barlin.

Guided by DOH’s mantra of ensuring access to basic public health services to all Filipinos through the provision of quality health care and regulation of providers of health goods and services, UHC HI-5 will continue to be a program that will open a wider health care opportunity to the community and extend what the government offices serve for its people.

When asked of what is next for DOH and UHC HI-5, Barlin simply answered, “Free

and

quality

healthcare

for

everyone today and the days beyond.”

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

25

Insights WHAT IS THE IMPACT OF HI-5 FOR YOU?

As the 15-month High Intensity Five (HI-5) nears to its completion, we ask health workers of its impact to them and to their program.

“ During the Hi-5, the regional efforts were directed to supporting the different Family Health programs. Because of it, Local Government Units were engaged in coming up with demand generating activities such as Buntis congress and Adolescent congress, Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan, etc. This resulted to increase in demand for various Family Health program services in Bicol.”

Dr. Rita Mae Ang, Medical Officer IV Head, Family Health Cluster

“Mas naging available sa community ang health care lalo na sa malalayong lugar kung saan ang mga tao ay hesitant mag access nito dahil sa kakulangan ng tamang impormasyon. Sa pag house to house namin, Hi-5 brought us closer to the people we serve. “

Niño Oliver Tinay, RN Nurse Deployment Program

“Hi-5 is bringing health services to the people. Kaming mga NDPs ay nagsasagawa ng home visits. Ang iba kasi nahihiya pumunta sa health stations kung kaya dahil dito, nabigyan natin ng tamang kaalaman ang ating mamamayan sa mga available na health care na ibinibigay ng DOH.”

Jona Luz Credo, RN Nurse Deployment Program

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Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

“ Para sa akin mas easy and accessible na ang health services dahil sa Hi-5. Kung baga mas naging visible ang ating pag serbisyo. Halimbawa nito ang pag bigay ng Tsekap package, Buntis congress at ang EPI Vaccination.”

Rino Michael O. Rosaria, RN Nurse Deployment Program

Comedy Cure FLOWERS FOR YOU

MILLIONAIRE

Delivery boy: Magandang araw ho!

Flowers for you Ms. Jennifer from Mr. Bobet Garcia.

GURO: Imagine na kayo ay MILYONARYO. Isulat ang iyong activities.

Babae: Wow ang sweet naman may I love you pa! Pero hindi ako si Ms. Jennifer.

ALL: Yes mam!

Delivery boy: Ay sorry ho ma’am.

Sino po sila?

JUAN: Intay ko po ang SECRETARY ko!

Babae: Ako si Mrs. Garcia, asawa nya!!!

BEST DRIVER Sa harap ng nursery window Friend: Pare, pag laki ng anak mo, am sure magaling mag-drive Dad: Bakit, pare, malaki ba ang kamay?

Friend: Hindi. Kasi kamukha siya ng driver ninyo!

GURO: Juan bat di ka nagsusulat?

SEKYU Airforce: “No guts, No glory!”

Marines: “No retreat, No surrender!”

Army: “No pain, No gain!”

Naks ayaw patalo ang...

Security Guards: “No I.D, No entry!”

MARANGAL BF: Kainis si Juan, mukha daw akong MAGSASAKA pagkatabi kita!

GF: HAHAHA! Wag ka nang magalit nagbibiro lang yun. Marangal na trabaho ang pagsasaka. Bakit nya naman daw nasabi?

BF: Kasi mukha ka daw KALABAW!

COFFEE SHOP Juan: Isang Kape Nga WAITER: Sir, Decaf po bah?

Juan: Wala ka bang alam o sadyang bobo lang?! Syempre De cup! Bakit may kape na bang naka-pinggan?!

GF: GRRR! Asan yan si Juan!!!

Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016

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Salud Bikolnon I January - March 2016