MANILA, Philippines – Tainted water or anything that has been contaminated with bacteria and other harmful organisms must not be consumed by humans due to risks of contracting diseases, according to the Department of Health (DOH).
When in doubt if water is clean or when a water pipe leaks, DOH said, water must be boiled two to three minutes prior to consumption.
DOH also does not recommend drinking urine, rainwater or sea water as these may contain natural and chemical waste materials which can harm one’s health.
Water sourced from deep wells can only be consumed after boiling, or when the deep well was dug far from a residential area.
“It is safe when a community, our houses are from the sources of drinking water. Houses should also have septic tanks where human wastes should go. There shouldn’t be contamination from the source of the drinking water,” DOH Spokesperson Undersecretary Eric Domngo said.
He added that drinking contaminated water might cause a person to develop Hepatitis-A, Cholera, Diarrhea and Typhoid fever, which are among the water-borne diseases.
A person who seldom takes a bath or washes hands can also contract several diseases such as boils and measles.
“Hand washing with soap and water really prevents a lot of diseases and transmission of diseases like sore eyes, measles and even chicken pox. Hand washing plays a big role to prevent transmission of diseases, keep clean and sanitize like using alcohol,” Domingo said.
Thoroughly washing ingredients like meat, fish and vegetables before cooking is also essential to prevent food poisoning, he added.
When it comes to personal hygiene, Domingo said, enough water and detergent must also be used in washing clothes.
However, use of too much fabric softener must be avoided to prevent body odor or even dermatitis, especially if clothes are not rinsed properly.
The Health Department also advises the public to save and store clean water for drinking, bathing, and cleaning.
Domingo added that water secreted by plants, such as cactus, bamboo and banana should only be used for survival.
He added that water is also very important in conducting medical operations and dialysis, and in maintaining cleanliness in hospitals to avoid infectious diseases which may lead to death. – Robie de Guzman / Aiko Miguel
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