Salud Bikolnon Edition no. 18

Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

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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 www.ro5.doh.gov.ph www.facebook.com/dohbicol

The COVER SEARCH AND SEEK. The Department of Health Regional Office V leads the national ASEAN Dengue Day with its theme focusing on “Search (and destroy mosquito breeding places) and Seek (early consultation)” on June 15, 2017.

This event highlighted the two (2) core actions of the 4S strategies as our shared responsibility for effective dengue prevention and control program.

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.

EDITORIAL

NEXT Issue . . .

Board & Staff

Chairman Napoleon L. Arevalo, MD, MPH

OIC - Director IV

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

Director III

Members

Surgical Caravan. To realize the goal of “Health for All”, the Department of Health launched the Surgical Caravan “ToDOH Alaga, May TSeKaP na, May Operasyon Pa!” as a follow-up program of the TSeKap to realize the provision of surgical intervention to those who need them.

This shall enhance the service delivery of Local Government Unit (LGU) hospitals through technical assistance from DOH Hospitals. The surgical caravan ensures the continuity of the Philippine Health Agenda’s three guarantees -- to provide health care across all stages of life; to establish Service Delivery Network (SDN); and to improve universal health insurance coverage.

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 Dr. Gladys D. Escote Kenn Brian Perez Mary Sonice Besmonte

Niña Albie Dulay

Ma. Aura Ermina C. Tandog Ferdinand M. Brizo

IN THIS ISSUE 4

DOH boosts advocacy on

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Tribesmen benefit from IP

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DOH RO V holds 1st

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DOH opens quitlines to help

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THE COVER: DOH Bicol

smoke-free environment Health Summit Midwives’ Convention

Filipinos quit smoking

hosts national ASEAN Dengue Day

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Bridge to Service Delivery Network

Health Headlines DOH boosts advocacy on smoke-free environment Tobacco use is not only a threat to health but also a threat to global development.

(left) Dr. Jeloveme Nuevo (center) sings with the live band as part of the advocacy on healthy lifestyle. (right) Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo talks on the benefits of practicing healthy lifestyle and commended Local Government Units which implement smoke-free environment.

To further strengthen the advocacy on smoke-free environment, the Department of Health Regional Office V (DOH RO V) celebrated World No Tobacco Day on May 31, 2017 in Legazpi City.

Limpin enumerated the health risks of smoking as well as its ill-effects to our country’s development. Smoking has been linked to cause stroke, coronary heart disease, lung cancer and other forms of cancer including cervical cancer.

This year’s theme, “Tobacco: a threat to development,” highlights that tobacco alone has a significant impact in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the world’s commitment to ending poverty. Tobacco use is a burden to a family’s budget for food, education, and shelter.

Alongside the celebration was the Cervical Cancer Consciousness month. Dr. Vivien Bombita of Bicol Medical Center talked about the prevention of cervical cancer and how smoking hastens its progression. In the country, twelve women die from cervical cancer everyday despite of it being preventable through healthy lifestyle, vaccination and screening.

Every year, tobacco use kills 87,000 Filipinos, which are more than the number of deaths due to HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined leading to an annual economic loss of approximately Php 271 billion from tobacco-related hospitalization and productivity losses.

Recently, President Rodrigo Duterte issued Executive Order 26, which strengthens the implementation of our existing tobacco control laws, particularly in the promotion of smoke-free environments.

Dr. Ma. Encarnita Blanco-Limpin of the Philippine Heart Center and Framework Convention Alliance on Tobacco Control Philippines (FCAP) encouraged participants to continuously campaign for a smoke-free Philippines. Dr.

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

As part of the government’s effort in promoting smoke-free environment, the Civil Service Commission represented by Atty. Mary Jane Orpiada upheld its policies on smoke-free workplace. The Rural Health Unit of San Jacinto, Masbate was identified with best practices on promoting and enforcing a smoke-free environment. Their achivement was presented by Dr. Jeloveme Nuevo.

“The Department of Health, being the lead agency in the implementation for the fulfillment of comprehensive smoking ban, ensures its strict 100% compliance towards a smoke-free Philippines,” Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial said on a press release./ddc

POPCOM-V debuts Modified U4U for Teen Parents

by Niña Albie Dulay Commission on Population RO V

(top) Nurses from the City Health Office of Tabaco facilitate the Teen Parent Exhibit where they teach the young participants about the changes that happen in a conceiving woman’s body as well as their responsibilities as new parents.

After the launching of the Information and Service Delivery Network (ISDN) for Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) in Tabaco City on February 13, 2017, POPCOM-V debuted its Modified U4U for Teen Mothers and Fathers on May 30 at Hotel Fina in Tabaco City. The activity was attended by 59 mothers and fathers with ages 14 to 19.

The Modified U4U Teen Trail aims to bring together teen parents to inform and educate them about pre- & post-natal care, access to health services, child rearing & nutrition, family planning, livelihood skills, alternative learning, and violence against women. Services were also provided by the members of the ISDN to enable the young parents to pursue their education and work goals and prevent gender-based violence and repeat pregnancies.

The activity was replicated on June 19 at the Hacienda High School, San Miguel, Tabaco City where 35 teen couples participated.

relevant segments in the trail such as the Teen Exhibit and Teen Code (Film Showing) and tweaked some parts to cater to the young parents. One of the modifications made was helping the participants identify the changes in their body as they go through the pregnancy. The Teen Code showed the animated film “Red Leaves Falling” but another short animated film called “Impossible Dream”, a movie about gender was added. Lectures on Male Involvement, Teen Pregnancy & Maternal Health Situationer and the relevance of the U4U in the Overall AHD Strategy of the Philippine Population Management Population (PPMP) was tackled early in the activity.

One of the highlights of the activity was the testimonial of Mary Rose Blanes, who became a mother at age 14. Her advice to the teen parents, especially addressed to young women is to lift themselves up after being broken, plan ahead and take action to achieve their goals.

Buntis Kits from Department of Health (DOH) were distributed to participants after the trail.

The upscaled version of U4U kept some of the most

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Health Headlines Tribesmen benefit from IP health Summit As early as three at dawn, Lora and her family were already trekking the long uneven path towards the highway to catch a free ride at six.

(left) Lora Ronquillo with her daughter-in-law, Joan, poses for a photo during the IP health summit. (right) DOH Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo interacts with a participant during his speech.

The Kabihug and Agta-Tabangnon tribe benefited from the services given during the Indigenous People (IP) Health Summit headed by the Department of Health Regional Office V, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and Provincial Health Office on April 21, 2017 in Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte.

More than five hundred tribesmen from the towns of Capalonga, Vinzons, Labo, Sta. Elena, Paracale, Basud and Jose Panganiban participated the event. Most of the IPs live in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA).

NCIP regional director, Ms. Evelyn Jacob, said that the IPs face poverty, discrimination, lack of basic services including health care and source of livelihood.

bata para sa magandang kinabukasan”, he said.

Recently, Director Arevalo issued a memorandum to Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital and Bicol Medical Center to prioritize IP patients.

Lora Ronquillo together with her daughter-in-law Joan travelled from Labo, Camarines Norte to the venue for almost four hours for them to avail the health services for the first time. The NCIP and LGUs provided free transporation to participants.

“. . .Most of the tribesmen have not been tended by a doctor or health worker since birth. . .”

According to NCIP, there are 48,743 registered Indigenous People (IP) in Bicol Region. They are among the most disadvantaged population in the country and are vulnerable to inequities in health.

DOH Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo, during his speech, encouraged participants to avail of free health services at rural health units and hospitals. “Gamitin natin ang ating health centers at pag-aralin natin ang ating mga

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

When asked who delivered her grandson, baby Mark, Lora proudly replied it was her.

Most of the tribesmen have not been tended by a doctor or health worker since birth.

Celso Magante and his wife, Maricel, said that this is the first time for them to attend such event. Among their six children, Paul John was the only one who has visited a health center.

All of their children were delivered by their traditional “hilot”.

Celso said they were happy to receive free medical check-up, health kits, medicine and vitamins. /ddc

(left) Celso Magante together with his family poses for a photo during the summit. (right) More than five hundred tribesmen from seven municipalities of Camarines Norte convened during the event.

(left) A participant undergoes dental check-up. (right) Health workers dispense prescribed medicine to a participant.

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Health Headlines

DOH RO V holds 1st Midwives’ Convention

by Dr. Gladys D. Escote Development Management Officer V Provincial DOH Office Albay

The Rural Health Midwives (RHMs) have been an important part of the primary healthcare system in the Philippines since the early twentieth century. Traditionally these health workers focused only on midwifery, but now RHMs have evolved into a professional team, playing a role in preventive health covering many aspects other than midwifery.

(left) DOH Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo inspires midwives in becoming innovative and dedicated to public health. (right) Participants having fun during the activity.

The Department of Health Regional Office V held the First Albay Midwives’ Convention with a theme of “ACHIEVE-ing ZERO UNMET NEED” on May 18-19, 2017 at La Piazza Hotel & Convention Center in Legazpi City. The theme was culled from the strategy of the Philippine Health Agenda and in support of the Presidential Executive Order No. 12 series of 2017 which is “Attaining and Sustaining Zero Unmet Needs for Family Planning through the Strict Implementation of the RPRH Act.” Different topics were prepared and seasoned lecturers were invited to provide updates during the 2-day activity. No less than the Provincial Governor Al Francis Bichara came to grace the occasion and gave a very inspiring message on the invaluable contributions of midwives in community development.

DOH RO V Director Napoleon Arevalo gave the keynote address higlighting his professional experiences with very innovative, ingenuous and committed midwives in his team during his early years as a doctor. He urged the participants to be dedicated in addressing the challenge of achieving zero unmet needs for family planning of couples of reproductive age.

Ms. Tricia Barozo of DOH RO V Family Health Cluster mentioned 37% (1st Quarter 2017) of the total number of couples in the region needs access and availment of modern family planning methods and services. The USAPAN Serye, a strategy used to directly address unmet needs for FP based on the reproductive

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

intention of clients was discussed by the Albay Provincial Health Office MNCHN Team and the RTI Luzonhealth represented by Mr. Val Estevez, its Provincial Technical Officer. Each variant was given emphasis so that participants can directly link information giving and counseling to actual service provision, including necessary referrals.

To give light regarding the renewal of professional licenses, Director Elenita Tan of Professional Regulation Commission Regional Office, lectured on the Continuing Professional Development Program of the PRC, zeroing on the requirements of midwives in their renewal of licenses. Another update was given

by Ms Jane Pecson of the Bicol University College of Nursing, discussing the “Academic Challenges of the Midwifery Practice.”

The midwives’ convention somehow became a reunion of sort for members of the Integrated Midwives Association of the Philippines (IMAP) and the Philippine League of Government Public Midwives, Inc. (PLGPMI), who for sometime have not been working together as an organization. But with this convention, officers of both organizations pledge to work and heed the call of the Philippine Health Agenda.

The signing of the Pledge of Commitment capped the momentous activity with all of the participants expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to attend. All are looking forward to the next convention.

Miners’ health uplifted

Empowering miners and their family towards better health.

The municipality of Jose Panganiban has been known for its gold. The town was formerly named as Mambulao, a word taken from “mambulawan,” which means bountiful of gold.

Mining is a hazardous occupation. It causes multiple impacts to our health especially to miners. Commonly, the lungs is the most affected organ due to prolonged exposure to chemicals especially those who indulge in compressor mining. For the past four years, acute respiratory infection had been the top cause of morbidity in the municipality which rose from 1,324 cases in 2013 to 5,224 cases in 2016.

The Department of Health Regional Office V and the Municipal Health Office of Jose Panganiban spearheaded the Miners’ Health Caravan on May 25, 2017 at the RP Memorial Stadium, Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte. The event catered to 200 miners and their families from the mining barangays including Sta. Rosa Sur, Sta. Rosa Norte, San Rafael, Luklukan Norte and Luklukan Sur. Primarily, the health caravan aimed to increase awareness of miners on tuberculosis, Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS), family planning, safe motherhood, deworming and other health

programs.

The Ubokabularyo was discussed by Ms. Lana Cristina Salma, the Provincial Coordinator of National Tuberculosis Program.

She emphasized early consultation for early diagnosis and treatment. She also reiterated that it could affect the whole family once left untreated.

HIV-AIDS was lively discussed by Mr. Ronald Malaluan, RN from Provincial Hospital emphasizing the prevention of acquiring the disease. Intestinal Parasitism among adult and children and its effect was discussed by Dr. Victoria Guanio.

Deworming every 6 months was stressed.

Non Communicable Diseases were tackled by Ms. Gina Calivara, RN reiterating a healthy lifestyle for disease prevention. Mrs. Myra Ong, RN discussed Family Planning. She draw attention on giving the child a better future thus giving the whole family a healthy life through Family Planning. Ms. Edrichelle Nazarrea, RPh discussed anti-microbial resistance and emphasized the proper use of antibiotics. /ddc With reports from Rowena Adel Magana, RN of the Nurse Deployment Program (NDP) Jose Panganiban.

(left) A miner undergoes smearing for malaria. (right) The health caravan was attended by 200 miners and their families.

(left) A health worker assists a participant to access family planning commodities. (right) Dr. Antonio C. Fulong, Municipal Health Officer, prescribes vitamins and medicine to a participant.

Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

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PhilHealth rolls out Grade 10 Learner’s Material in Catanduanes

by Ferdinand M. Brizo Social Insurance Officer I PRO V - Local Health Insurance Office Catanduanes

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) developed a Learner’s Material which was certified by the Bureau of Curriculum Development (BCD) of Department of Education (DepEd) as compliant with K-12 Curriculum and is suitable for use in public schools. The material will be used in teaching the PhilHealth Lesson in the Grade 10 Health Component of the MAPEH subject.

The integration of the PhilHealth Learner’s Material into basic

the province of Catanduanes successfully completed the one-

education aims to provide students with the knowledge and

day “Orientation to MAPEH teachers on PhilHealth Module” at

understanding about PhilHealth and the values and principles

the DepEd Divison Conference Hall 2, Virac, Catanduanes.

of social health insurance.

It was a fruitful orientation spearheaded by the Local Health

Through DepEd, PhilHealth hopes to roll-out the teaching

Insurance Office (LHIO) of Catanduanes in coordination

of the Grade 10 PhilHealth Learner’s Material this School

with the Catanduanes Division Office of the Department of

Year 2017-2018 to the 41 public schools in the Division of

Education (DepEd).

Catanduanes, being the pilot area in Region V. Last May 29. 2017, MAPEH teachers from different schools in

Assistant

School

Division

Superintendent

Despabiladeras represented the DepEd Catanduanes in the

LHIO Catanduanes staff with DepEd officers and teachers during the “Orientation to MAPEH teachers on PhilHealth Module”.

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

Bernie

absence of School Superintendent Socorro Dela Rosa who was

the integration. According to them, teaching the said module

on official travel outside the province, while Acting LHIO Head

will not only educate the students about PhilHealth but also

Ma. Lourdes S. Mabeza represented the LHIO Catanduanes.

empower them as members.

The short program started at 8:30 in the morning followed by

Meanwhile, ADS Despabiladeras warmly appreciated the

the orientation and workshop which lasted up to 5 o’clock in

integration of the PhilHealth module into basic education

the afternoon.

starting this year. According to her, although it is an additional

The historical background on how the PhilHealth Module was integrated to the K-12 program was presented and discussed by Mr. Nelson Sicio, MAPEH Supervisor,

while

the comprehensive orientation on the historical background of PhilHealth as well as the policies on PhilHealth benefit availment were presented by Acting LHIO Head Mabeza, SIO-1 Ferdinand M. Brizo and SIO-1 Leony Paz E. Austero.

Ma. Tessa S. Pavia of LHIO Catanduanes served as one of the facilitators.

Individual and group exercises were enjoyed by the participants. Tokens were given to the lucky few who actively participated in the after-discussion review to test the knowledge acquired from the modules presented.

During the latter part of the workshop, videos from Rizal High School in Pasig City, where the teaching of the PhilHealth Learner’s Material was pilot-tested last 1st quarter of SY 2015-2016, was shown to the participants.

The MAPEH teachers in attendance expressed their interest in

task for the teachers, it will be a great advantage to the members and their dependents. She personally considers herself a living witness on how PhilHealth really works favorably to the members. She divulged during her speech in front of the participants that she is a beneficiary of a kidney transplant procedure back in the year 2014. Instead of paying an enormous amount for the said operation, she only paid a portion of the gross amount because the procedure was covered by PhilHealth.

OIC Mabeza, on behalf of PhilHealth Regional Office V, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the full cooperation extended by the DepEd and reiterated that thru this partnership, the ultimate goal of empowering the members and dependents will be the product of this endeavor. Mr. Sicio also expressed support to the program and is looking forward to the effective implementation of the integration.

“Bawat Filipino, Miyembro, Bawat Miyembro, Protektado, Kalusugan ng Lahat, Sigurado” Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

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DOH opens Quitlines to help Filipinos quit smoking

The Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), on June 17, 2017, launched phone and mobile-centered support services to help Filipino smokers quit tobacco.

Harnessing the power and potentials of communication technologies, the DOH now offers Filipinos who want to kick their smoking habits real-time counseling and support through a quitline.

Quitline is a hotline –165364 - that smokers can call. For the mobile-based cessation, simply text 'STOPSMOKE' to (29290)165364 – and text messaging will begin support and guidance to quit smoking, instead of actual operators and voice. Services will be available and accessible via SMART/ Sun Cellular and Globe.

“We are all pleased to share with the public new services that will help them initiate or continue quitting the use of tobacco products,” Health Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial said.

“The ubiquitous availability and reach of telecommunication devices have already enabled numerous possibilities. From effectively bridging the communication gap between people, these devices are now also seen as valuable tools in improving health care delivery systems to address the burden of tobacco use,” she added.

Based on the country’s 2015 Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), seven in 10 of Filipino smokers would like to quit tobacco. But only 4% of those who smoked in the past 12 months reported success in fully kicking the deadly habit.

"The Philippines is once again at the forefront of tobacco control innovation as the first country to launch a mobile tobacco cessation initiative in the Western Pacific Region," WHO Country Representative to the Philippines Dr. Gundo Weiler said. "With the Quitlines, Filipino smokers now have on their hands an accessible way to put into action their intention to quit smoking. The World Health Organization is proud to support this initiative together with the Department of Health and the International Telecommunications Union." he added.

Non-communicable diseases-NCDs (cancer, heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases) are threat to the Western Pacific Region, to which the Philippines belongs. In 2012 alone, approximately 11 million deaths in the region were due

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to NCDs, undermining economic development.

There are now 1 million less smokers in the Philippines (GATS, 2015), and there is real demand for smoking cessation services as tobacco control programs are strengthened: graphic health warnings are prompting smokers to quit; significant number of local governments are enforcing better smoke-free ordinances and more recently, the President has just signed EO 26 banning smoking in public places nationwide.

The Philippines was the logical pilot for the WHO-ITU partnership, ‘Be He@lthy, Be Mobile’ (BHBM) because of the high penetration of mobile telephone in the country.

“Cellphone penetration rate in the Philippines was 113% as far back as 2012. Mobile phones provide a reliable and cheap tool to access even the remotest of populations. The Philippines is a highly digitized society with a rapidly growing mobile phone penetration, and it made sense to roll out the mobile cessation here," Secretary Ubial emphasized.

The mobile cessation component of DOH’s real-time support services was developed under the the BHBM Initiative. BHBM is a larger movement that looks to exploit to incorporate mobile technology – in particular text messaging and apps – to help combat non-communicable diseases or NCDs. So far nine countries have joined the initiative: Costa Rica, Norway, Philippines, Senegal, Tunisia, United Kingdom, Zambia, India and Egypt.

World Health Organization’s (WHO) document on Policy Recommendations for Smoking Cessation and Treatment of Tobacco Dependence says it is difficult to reduce the tobaccorelated deaths over the next 30-50 years unless adult smokers are actively encouraged to quit.

Both Quitline technologies implement a range of techniques in their communication and messages, including motivation, advice and guidance, and counseling, over telephone and mobile platforms./press release

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The Cover

DOH Bicol

hosts National

ASEAN Dengue Day

The Department of Health (DOH) Regional Office V (Bicol Region) hosted the celebration of the National ASEAN Dengue Day with its theme focusing on “Search (and destroy mosquito breeding places) and Seek (early consultation).”

This event highlighted the two (2) core actions of the 4S strategies as our shared responsibility for effective dengue prevention and control program.

The 4S implementation calls for everyone to become prime movers in achieving substantial change and positive influencers to others within the community. “The significance of addressing dengue at the barangay level is to overcome its detrimental impact of instigating economic burden and hindering our development goals. The first step to prevent dengue is within our homes, it is important to instill cleanliness in our surroundings and empty containers with stagnant waters to eliminate the breeding places of mosquitoes. If fever is persistent, with or without rashes, it is imperative to seek early consultation in the health facilities for proper medical management and to avoid serious complications,” DOH Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial emphasized.

“Our fight against this dreaded virus needs a multi-sectoral approach towards a sustained integrated vector management.

We need everyone’s support, the DOH together with the local Turn to next page. . .

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial during the ASEAN Dengue Day 201

“

Our fight against this dreaded virus needs a multisectoral approach towards a sustained integrated vector management.

We need everyone’s support, the DOH together with the local government unit, other government agencies and private sectors will visit households and educate the residents on the importance of preventing the spread of dengue.

”

DOH Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial

17.

SEA OF PEOPLE. Participants composed of students from Albay Central School, health workers from the provinces of Bicol and staff from different DOH regional offices convene during the activity.

Aedes Aegypti. This

striped mosquito is the culprit behind the spread of dengue virus.

Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

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government unit, other government agencies and private sectors will visit households and educate the residents on the importance of preventing the spread of dengue,” the Health Chief added.

The challenge to have an enhanced 4S implementation is doing them consistently and regularly. A great example is the reactivation of the 4 o’clock habit, a once a week search for key containers and other breeding sites of mosquitoes and eventually destroy them at 4 o’clock in the afternoon in every household. To institutionalize this “Search and destroy breeding sites” in the locality, the passage and implementation of an ordinance is recommended.

On June 14, 2017, participants gather at Hotel St. Ellis for the Scien

Meanwhile, there is a decreasing trend of reported dengue cases to the Epidemiology Bureau. Statistics from January 1 to May 20, 2017 show a total of 35,973 dengue cases nationwide, 31.8% lower compared to the same time period last year (52,780). Secretary Ubial, however, reiterates that we cannot be complacent in our efforts against dengue and we need to strive harder to eventually make Philippines a dengue-free country.

Most of the cases from 2017 were from the following regions: Central Visayas Region (15.5%), Central Luzon Region (13%), National Capital Region (12.2%), CALABARZON Region (11.4%) and SOCCSKSARGEN Region (11.1%). Ages of cases ranges from less than 1 month to 98 years old (median = 13 years). Majority of the reported cases are males (54%).

Most (21.5%) of the cases belongs to the 5 - 9 years age

A motorcade officially commenced the 7th ASEAN Dengue Day celebration.

group. There are 207 reported deaths with a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 0.58%. The age group that has the highest CFR is 0-4 years old (0.86%).

The National Dengue Prevention and Control Program (NDPCP) highlights the reinforcement of its Integrated Vector Management (IVM) strategy by letting the public know the vector itself, Aedes aegypti. In Bicol, the host region for this year, these mosquitoes are cultured at the Regional Insectary for research and other educational purposes while dengue virus can be further studied at the Public Health Laboratory for Dengue. In this regard, it is necessary to improve and upgrade the facilities of both the Regional Insectary and the Public Health Laboratory for Dengue.

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Secretary Ubial and Dr. Gundo Weiler of WHO officially cuts the ribbon during the soft opening of the Bicol Regional Public Health Entomology Laboratory on June 15, 2017.

Also, scaling-up interventions against dengue is the national roll-out of Dengue NS1 Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT).

Administrative Order No. 2016-0043 entitled “Guidelines for

the

National

Implementation

of

Dengue

Rapid

Diagnostic Test RDT” was signed on December 21, 2016.

A nationwide orientation was done on the use of Dengue NS1 RDT and capacity building for peripheral health care workers in cooperation with Research Institute for Tropical Medicine. Updating the clinical management guidelines and surveillance flow as well as diagnostic tools like the RDT NS1 antigen for Dengue has been introduced. More so, the operating guidelines for the use of Loop Mediated Isothermal

ntific Session on Dengue NS1 Rapid Diagnostic Test.

Amplification (LAMP) technology to complement the dengue NS1 RDT is near finalization and will be applied at hospital level. (RDT at RHU level, LAMP at hospital level).

The prick-drop-wait procedure test kit contains a finger lancet to draw blood and promises results in 15 minutes. Like a pregnancy test kit, the Dengue NS1 RDT yields positive result for dengue by displaying two lines. Qualitative detection of NS1, released with high concentration in human serum during the acute phase of dengue infection, may help predict the risk associated with the disease. Thus, this NS1 test is relevant during the acute or early phase of infection. Seeking early consultation will substantiate the result of the Dengue NS1 RDT.

Secretary Ubial together with Dr. Gundo Weiler, representative of World Health Organization, and DOH Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo wave to passers-by as they ride the float.

Early case detection, diagnosis and correct fluid management are key factors in reducing dengue morbidity and mortality shall be facilitated by: early seeking behavior; reiteration of the nationwide implementation of the Dengue NS1 Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) under Administrative Order 20160043; appropriate fluid replacement for children and adults to prevent dehydration and avoid over hydration; implementation of the guidelines for case management and referral based on clinical judgement and local context and ; conduct of formal systematic mortality reviews.

“Dengue prevention should start from us. Make 4S a habit so that together, we can fight and eliminate dengue-carrying mosquitoes and protect ourselves and loved ones against dengue. Let us unite in one goal of all for health towards health for all, ACHIEVE!” Health Secretary Ubial concluded. /

Specimen mosquitoes at the Entomology laboratory.

press release

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(left) Secretary Ubial and Director Arevalo visit the best practice booth of Ligao City. (right) The City Health Office of Ligao won the first place and received fifteen thousand pesos.

(left) The poster of the winning dengue short film entitled “Piriyong Piyungan� (Hide and Seek) depicts drama and suspense. (right) LGU-RHU San Jacinto, Masbate received the Best Short Film award and the twenty five thousand peso cash prize.

(left) The Health Promotion and Communication Services of DOH Central Office turns over the Philippine Health TV to Rural Health Units in Bicol. (right) A teacher from Albay Central School orients the DOH team of the dengue prevention practices in the elementary school.

ASEAN DENGUE Day at a glance

Dengue in Bicol down by 21% Even with a 21% decrease of cases in the region, the Department of Health Regional Office V continuously reminds the public to intensify community action to prevent dengue this rainy season as part of the celebration of the 7th ASEAN Dengue Day. This year’s theme, “Search (and destroy mosquito breeding places) and Seek (early consultation)”, highlights everyone’s role in dengue prevention by practicing the 4S. 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.

Figure 1 illustrates the dengue cases and deaths in Bicol from 2010 to June 10, 2017.

According to the surveillance report of the Public Health Preparedness and Response Unit (PHPRU) for the period of January 1 to June 10, 2017, the data shows 738 cases in 2016 and 580 cases this year making a 21% decrease in the number of cases in the region. There are also three suspected and one confirmed dengue deaths this year. Among the provinces, Camarines Sur ranks highest with 306 cases followed by Albay - 87, Masbate - 73, Sorsogon - 63, Camarines Norte - 33 and Catanduanes 16.

“We should make sure to eliminate all mosquito breeding sites like tires, flower vase, and anything that can hold stagnant water,” Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo said. “Everyone has a role in dengue prevention. We should not give mosquitoes a chance to multiply because the disease they carry will put our lives at risk”, he explains.

Figure 2 illustrates the comparison of dengue cases and deaths in Bicol from January to June 10, 2016 versus the same period in 2017.

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

Dr. Arevalo also advised to seek immediate medical attention once symptoms occur.

“Once a person experiences fever for at least two days, consult your doctor. Do not self medicate”, he added.

“We should practice the 4S and engage our community in the Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue (ABKD) strategy”, he added. /ddc

“

We should make sure to eliminate all mosquito breeding sites like tires, bottles, flower vases, and anything that can hold stagnant water.

Everyone has a role in dengue prevention.

We should not give mosquitoes a chance to multiply because the disease they carry will put our lives at risk.

�

Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo, MPH DOH RO V Regional Director

Regional Director Dr. Napoleon L. Arevalo during the motorcade on ASEAN Dengue Day on June 15, 2017.

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Ngiting Tagumpay! A brave boy requested for a photo with the nurses of BRTTH after his successful circumcision.

Bridge to Service Delivery Network

The Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital brings its services to far flung municipalities and provinces.

by Kenn Brian Perez Health Education and Promotion Officer Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital

The BRTTH conducts a three-day Health Caravan to the island of Burias, municipality of Claveria, Masbate on May 17-19, 2017 focusing on all the aspects of health care – promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative.

The team was composed of OB-Gynecologists, Dr. Hazel Andueza and Dr. Edsel Aguila, surgeon, Dr. Nicanor Manzano, Dermatologist, Dr. Fortuna Santiago Marcelo, Dentist, Dr. Anita B. Evangelista with her assistant Jane D. Martinez, BRTTH Nutritionist and Dietitian, Cecil B. Belen, nurses Sarah Jane Tawingan, Ma. Lourdes Ocfemia, Kristine Monsalve, Patricia De Los Santos, Katerina S. Catolico, Pamela Sahha Dayap, Ma. Aimee Boncacas and BRTTH Health Education and Promotion Officer, Kenn Brian Perez.

The Health Caravan commenced with dance exercises at 4AM led by the BRTTH Hataw team (Mr. Perez, Ms. De los Santos, Ms. Monsalve, Ms. Ocfemia and Ms. Dayap) at the Municipal covered court. It was attended by Claveria municipal health office, municipal office, police department staff and residents.

In the opening program, Municipal Mayor Henedina V. Andueza gave an inspirational message to the participants.

In behalf of the head of the Public Health Unit, Dr. Raoul Emmanuel Zantua, and the BRTTH EXECOM, the team thanked the municipal mayor for prioritizing the health of the residents of Claveria and also for showing the BRTTH team an overwhelming hospitality. Ms. Aimee Boncacas discussed the overview of the Caravan and gave a brief history of the BRTTH Health Caravan which started in 2009 when the Public Health Unit of BRTTH was opened. The objective and the activities for the next two days were also discussed.

While the clients were waiting for consultation and dispensing of medicines, a simultaneous advocacy activity was also

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

conducted. The participants were provided with lectures on Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning, Cervical Cancer Screening, Breastfeeding and Newborn Screening, Summer Diseases including Heat Stroke and the Expanded Program on Immunization.

There were separate booths for advocacy materials of the different DOH programs, services, health promotion and prevention of diseases.

On the second day, the advocacy on proper handwashing, Kilatis Kutis Consultation, nutrition and oral health were given highlight. The participants were given oral health kits and taught proper brushing of teeth. Nutrition counselling and screening conducted simultaneously during every consultation.

Claveria District Hospital provided free Cervical Cancer Screening thru Visual Inspection using ascetic acid (VIA).

Family planning services including Bilateral Tubal Ligation (BTL) or permanent method of contraception and IUD insertion were also provided by the hospital. The BRTTH team also provided 150 clients free circumcision.

During the third day, another hataw dance exercise was led by the BRTTH Hataw team in the morning. It was followed by blood sample collection of the newborn clients who tested positive in newborn screening. They were to undergo confirmatory testing.

A total of 1,219 clients were served during the three-day health caravan. The team left the place with gratifying faces pictured on the people of Claveria. The BRTTH Health Caravan team again raise its foundation as the Hospital’s bridge to Service Delivery Network not only in the Province of Albay but also to nearby provinces.

Boys patiently waiting in queue for their circumcision.

The BRTTH team provided the participants with informational materials and medicines.

Surgeon Dr. Andueza, Assistant Surgeon Dr. Aguila perform a bilateral tubal ligation on a patient.

A child undergoes blood extraction needed for G6PD Deficiency Confirmatory Testing.

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The top three winners of the Search for the Prettiest Buntis (center) and staff of the Bicol Sanitarium pose for a photo.

Search for the Prettiest Buntis

by Ma. Aura Ermina C. Tandog, RM., RN Health Education and Promotion Officer Bicol Sanitarium

As part of the celebration of safe motherhood week, the Bicol Sanitarium held the Search for the Miss Prettiest Buntis 2017 on May 15, 2017.

Safe motherhood is a very essential program of the Department of Health as it provides education for childbearing women of any age with regards to the importance of pre-natal check-up, facility based delivery, safe delivery and postnatal visits. This is an important part of their journey as a woman and also for the life inside her womb.

(left) A pregnant mother having a check-up during the activity. (right) A participant reads an informational flyer about safe motherhood.

The celebration also included free laboratory work-up for the pregnant mothers, free blood typing for their partners, free pre-natal consultation, free dental consultation, provision of vitamins and PhilHealth consultation.

The search for Ms. Prettiest Buntis 2017 was participated by 10 pregnant mothers that went through a question and answer portion. The questions provided were related to the journey of a pregnant mother from the very start of the pregnancy up to the first three months of the newborn.

The safe motherhood week is celebrated every May 12-15, 2017 of the year.

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

A contestant of the search during the question and answer portion.

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Insights

Si Lea

by Mary Sonice Besmonte Nurse Deployment Program Malilipot, Albay

Disisais anyos kang ako nag agom Dai akong ibang inisip kundi Padaba ko si agom Iyo man saiyang sabi sakong rumdum Ngunyan ako bente sais anyos na Anom naman ang samong aki Nagpapadyak si agom habang ako sa harong Nag-aasikaso kan aki na anom Kami kapos sa urualdaw Ang mga aki minsan punaw Saiyang kita kulang na kulang Minsan ako naluluha na lang Na mahiling ang mga aki na bakong maray Kaya sarong aldaw ako naglalakaw-lakaw Dai ko aram an sakong padumanan Hanggang sarung tawo sako nagpaypay “Mari Lea” saiyang taram Barangay Health Center palan sakong nadumanan An nagapod sako nagtatrabaho duman Ako pinaliwanagan asin tinaraman Na sakong problema pwede pang maresulbahan Ako napaisip sa saiyang tinaram Ako naumayan asin naliwanagan Kaya ako nagdesisyon na maray “Ako mapa-ligate” sakong tinaram Kaya ngunyan ako daing hadit Na baka masundan pa samung aki Ako makakatuwang na sakong agom Nani mga aki mapadakulang tultol Dakulang salamat ki ate na nag apod Natama an sakong salang pagtubod Lugod kamo sa iba pa makatabang Tanganing wara ng maging “Lea” pa man

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Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

Comedy Cure Anak sa labas

Batang Matigas Ang Ulo

Bully

Pedro: Pare, ano ang gagawin pag nalaman mo na may anak ka sa labas?

May isang batang ubod ng kulit. Kahit anong gawin ng ama hindi pa din ito tumitino. Kaya isang araw, sa sobrang galit ng ama pinasok sa sako ang anak at binitin sa sanga ng puno.

JUAN: Tay, meron pong boy sa iskul na lagi akong tinatawag na bading!

Bata: Tay!

JUAN: Wag po tay, cute po eh!

Susi

Ama: Ano? (naawa sa anak)

Boobs

Boy: Babe, alam mo ba na ikaw ang susi ng buhay ko?

Bata: Taaaayyy!

Misis: Hon, may mga friends ako na nagpa-enhance ng boobs, gusto mo magpadagdag din ako?

Juan: Huh? Anong klaseng tanong ba yan pare? Syempre papasukin ko sa loob ng bahay.

Girl: Talaga??? Eh, sino yung kasama mo kahapon?

Boy: Si babe naman, sya yung duplicate.

Ama: (lumapit sa sakong nakabitin.)

O? Ano? Magbabago ka na ba?

Bata: Paki swing naman. Please.

ITAY: Nakakalalaki na yan, sinuntok mo sana!

Mister: Ewan ko, parang di ata saiyo bagay ang tatlong suso.

Kurtina

Isang Salita

Tindera: Sir, bili na po kayo ng kurtina.

Pick-up lines

JUAN: Sori po, di ako makakabayad ng upa this month!

Juan: Ale, pabili nga ako ng isa, para sa computer ko.

Theo: Miss, talon ka na dyan!

LANDLORD: Ano? Yan din ang sinabi mo last month!

Tindera: Sir, bakit po para sa computer ko?

JUAN: Ako po kasi ay taong may isang salita!

Juan: Ang computer kasi may windows!

Operasyon MR: Love, sakaling di ako palarin sa operasyon ko, ikaw na ang bahala sa mga bata. Mahal ko kayo!

MRS: Tumigil ka nga, wala pang namatay sa TULI!

Got a

Translate Teacher: Juan, translate this to english. “Ang uwak ang hinang hina na maglakad�.

Juan: The wak wak weak weak wok wok.

FUNNY JOKE

Rose: Bakit?

Theo: Para mahulog ka na sa akin.

Rose: Ahh ganun? Sige. Alam mo para kang manhole.

Theo: Naks! Gumaganti ka na ah. Bakit naman?

Rose: Tanga lang ang mahuhulog saiyo.

to share?

Send us your jokes and make us laugh to tears!

Email your funny, corny or witty jokes to dohbicolhpu@gmail.com or leave a message at www.facebook.com/dohrov.

Salud Bikolnon I April - June 2017

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D H ADVISORY

NATIONWIDE SMOKING BAN Effectivity of E.O. 26 (Providing for the Establishment of Smoke-free Environment in Public and Enclosed Places) Begins on July 23, 2017

NO SMOKING in enclosed public places and conveyances

Violations shall be subject to applicable sanctions under R.A. 9211.

Report violations to DOH Manila Hotline (02) 711-1002 DOH Regional Office V hotline 483-5656 local 319