No outbreak of AGE in Penampang: Sabah Health Department
Published on: Saturday, June 29, 2024
Asits said AGE is a condition where individuals experience watery stools more than three times within 24 hours, with or without other symptoms such as vomiting, fever and abdominal pain.
Kota Kinabalu: No outbreak of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases has been detected in Penampang, said the Sabah Health Department (JKNS).
Its Director Datuk Dr Asits Sanna said the Penampang Health Office’s surveillance of AGE during the epidemiological week (EW) 24/2024 found that AGE cases were sporadic and slightly exceeded the action line threshold.
ADVERTISEMENT
“Therefore, the Penampang Health Office issued an internal letter to enhance control measures,” he said in a statement, Friday.
He further noted that subsequent EW 25/2024 surveillance indicated that AGE cases were below the alert line threshold.
Previously, a circular bearing the Penampang Health Office letterhead dated June 21 went viral on social media, alerting residents to rising AGE cases in the district.
According to the letter, the Penampang Health Office’s Contagious Disease Control (CDC) Unit sought the cooperation of the Penampang Health Clinic and all private clinics in the district to report AGE cases to it.
ADVERTISEMENT
On June 22, it was reported that the Department confirmed 82 residents in Tawau had been infected with AGE since June 18.
This followed Asits’ statement that the Department suspected contaminated water was the cause of a spate of AGE cases in Tenom.
ADVERTISEMENT
He said the Tenom Health Office first identified an increase in gastroenteritis cases in the district on June 4.
Asits said AGE is a condition where individuals experience watery stools more than three times within 24 hours, with or without other symptoms such as vomiting, fever and abdominal pain.
Severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration. Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections can cause AGE.
“As a preventive measure, the Department advises the public to always maintain personal hygiene and frequently wash their hands.
“The public is also advised to use safe and clean water and to drink boiled water.
“If using water filters, ensure they are regularly and properly maintained.
“Food should also be cooked thoroughly and properly.
“If experiencing symptoms of diarrhoea, individuals should seek medical treatment,” said Asits.
He added that JKNS, in cooperation with the Penampang Health Office, will continue to monitor the situation of AGE cases through surveillance at all health facilities in the district.
Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
Daily Express Malaysia
.jpg)
.jpg)
