Thursday, November 21, 2024

Tag: Department of Health

DOH-10 urges public to buy generic medicines, same quality but cheaper

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–The generic drugs have the same quality and effectiveness as the branded versions because they go through similar regulatory processes at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but they are cheaper, said an official from the Department of Health-Center for Health Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM)

In Talakayan sa PIA: Konsultayo Series at SM CDO City Uptown, Dr. Steffi Grace Enon, medical officer of DOH-CHDNM, said generic medicine has the same active ingredient as the branded version, so it has the same effect.

Why is there generic medicine?

The Generics Act of 1988 ensures that all Filipinos have access to affordable and effective medicines.

Enon shared that there are two main types of medicines. The first is innovator medicine, which is made by pharmaceutical companies that are the ones to create the medicine first for a specific disease. They also apply for patents for the drug, which means they have the sole right to make and sell the drug. But after a few years, with the patent expired, other manufacturers can then create the same drug.

According to Enon, all generic medications on the market underwent and passed the FDA process, while our generic medications met the same standards of quality as branded medications.

DOH-CHDNM is requiring pharmaceutical companies to do mandatory generic labeling. “Tanan tambal dapat nakasulat didto ang generic nga ngalan [All medicine should have a generic name],” said Enon.

They are also reminding physicians and doctors to include in their prescriptions the generic name of the drug.

Lastly, DOH-CHDNM also reminds pharmacies to do generic dispensing or substitution. This means that when a patient goes to the pharmacy and asks for a generic prescription, he or she should be given the generic version of the drug.

There is also the Cheaper Medicines Act, which was issued in 2008 and is an amendment to the Generics Medicine Act.

The goal is to ensure there are generic versions available on the market. The Cheaper Medicines Act intends to lower the prices of medicine even more.

There are various ways to implement the law, Enon said. There is a maximum retail price, and there is a price cap for medicines that belong to the top-burden diseases in the Philippines, like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer, among others.

Second, there is a suggested retail price (SRP) for essential and emergency medicine.

“Mandated tanan nato drugstores and pharmacies, mag-submit sa Department of Health sa ilang presyo sa mga tambal [We have mandated drugstores and pharmacies to submit to the Department of Health the prices of their medicines],” said Enon.

Third is the drug price reference index. Basically, this is a list of the prices of medicines for bidding from the government.

“Kung mupalit ang isa ka government facility or agency, mu-abide gyud sila ani nga presyo [If a government facility or agency will buy, they need to abide by the set price],” added Enon. (JMOR/PIA-10)

BFAR debunks rumors of HIV-infected fish, seafood being sold in Normin

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-10 on Wednesday said there is no truth to rumors being spread online that HIV-infected medical waste that was found dumped in waters in this region has contaminated fish and seafood being sold in markets

“We want to emphasize that consuming fishery products is safe and poses no risk of contracting HIV. HIV is a virus that primarily spreads through specific human bodily fluids, such as blood, sexual fluids, and breast milk, and is not transmitted through the consumption of food, including fish and seafood,” BFAR-10 Regional Director Edward Yasay said.

Recent misleading social media posts have been circulating online, suggesting that HIV-infected medical tools found in the waters of the region (with no particular location specified) are causing seafood to carry the virus. BFAR-10 clarified that these claims are false and unsubstantiated. The Department of Health Center for Health Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) has verified that there is no basis for such allegations.

In addressing public health concerns, Yasay emphasized that it is vital to rely on credible sources and accurate information.

“We encourage all consumers to be vigilant about the information they encounter online and to consult reputable health organizations and authorities for accurate and trustworthy information regarding public health and food safety,” he added.

BFAR-10, through its Fisheries Integrated Laboratory Section (FILS) and Fisheries Inspection and Quarantine Unit (FIQU), is fully committed to ensuring the safety and quality of fishery products available in the market. Fisheries inspectors and stringent regulatory measures are in place to monitor and regulate seafood, ensuring it meets the highest safety and hygiene standards.

Yasay urged the public to continue trusting fishery products as a safe and nutritious source of food. He assured that BFAR-10 remains dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of consumers and ensuring that the region’s fishery products meet the highest standards of safety and quality. (RTP/PIA-10)

Leptospirosis cases up 40% in Northern Mindanao

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The Department of Health-Region 10 urged the public to remain vigilant as the number of leptospirosis cases in the Northern Mindanao region has significantly increased this year

According to the DOH-10 Regional Epidemiology Surveillance and Disaster Response Unit, 97 cases have been recorded in the region as of October 7, 40.58 percent higher than last year.

Misamis Occidental has the highest number of cases, with 41, followed by Cagayan de Oro City (27), Bukidnon (14), Misamis Oriental (13), and Iligan City and Camiguin with one case each. Lanao del Norte has no reported so far.

Emman Valentin, health program officer of the DOH-10 Regional Epidemiology Surveillance and Disaster Response Unit, said one of the factors in the rise of cases was the series of flooding, such as in Misamis Occidental, where a huge increase from only three cases in the same period last year was recorded.

The much-relaxed Covid-19 restrictions this year, Valentin said, may also have contributed to the increase in cases compared to last year when people stayed in their homes.

“So now, in 2023, although the Covid has not been lifted, we are more relaxed. So, the movement of the people has now been going out,” Valentin said on Friday, October 13.

Leptospirosis is an infection caused by the Leptospira genus of bacteria and can be transmitted through the urine of infected animals, such as mice, rats, pigs, dogs, horses, and cattle.

It can also be contracted by humans wading in floodwater tainted with animal urine. If there are cuts or abrasions, this disease may enter the body through damaged skin, as well as through the eyes, nose, or mouth.

An infected person may experience fever, chills, headache, muscle pain (myalgia), skin rashes, diarrhea, redness of the eyes (conjunctival suffusion), and jaundice or yellowish discoloration of the skin.

Valentin said every province, city, and municipality has a surveillance officer who has been conducting information, education, and communication (IEC) campaigns against leptospirosis. They were instructed to advise people who have been exposed to floodwater to take prophylaxis, which can be had for free from the local government units.

The public has been reminded to maintain the cleanliness of their surroundings and avoid wading and swimming in floodwater to keep away from the disease. Going to the nearest health center or consulting a physician has been advised, especially for individuals with suspected leptospirosis.

“Untreated leptospirosis may lead to severe complications that can cause liver or kidney failure, jaundice, damage to other major organs, or even death,” DOH-10 OIC Director Dr. Ellenietta Gamolo said.

According to the DOH, keeping the environment clean, disposing of garbage properly to avoid rat infestations, and using pest control measures are some of the best practices to prevent leptospirosis.

Health authorities advised the public always to wear boots when crossing floodwaters and wash their feet after wading in the flood. Open wounds also need to be covered by plasters and keep their eyes, ears, and mouth from floodwater to avoid bacterial infection. (Manila Bulletin)

Spike in fever cases in NorMin not linked to Nipah

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CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Officials of the Department of Health in Northern Mindanao (DOH-10) on September 27 said the spike in fever cases in the region is not linked to the Nipah virus

DOH-10 director Dr. Ellenietta Gamolo said from Jan. 1 to Sept. 26 this year, a total of 18,364 cases were reported, as compared to 12,996 cases in the same period in 2022.

Gamolo, however, maintained that these cases of fever are not in any way linked to the Nipah virus.

“There are no laboratory results confirming cases of Nipah in the country and here in the region,” she said in a press briefing here.

Gamolo said the fever cases, considered as influenza-like illnesses (ILI), share similar signs and symptoms with other viral infections.

She also said such cases of ILI may be attributed to ordinary flu or coronavirus disease 2019.

Meanwhile, Dr. Stephanie Grace Zamora, DOH-10 senior medical officer, said they would recommend schools in this city to have their students experiencing ILI be tested.

“The easiest would be testing through antigen tests,” she said.

Earlier this week, several schools in the city announced that they would be reverting to online classes due to a spike in fever cases among their students.

In another development, Mayor Rolando Uy on Wednesday issued a new order reimposing the observance of the minimum health protocols in public places and transportation. (Nef Luczon/PNA)

PMNP launched in Bukidnon to combat malnutrition in children

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MALAYBALAY CITY – The Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as lead agencies, recently launched the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) in Bukidnon

The PMNP brings together various stakeholders and involved government agencies to address critical health issues focusing on maternal and child healthcare that carries the theme “Sa Healthy Pilipinas, Lahat Malakas! Converging Governance and Empowering Communities Against Maternal and Child Malnutrition.”

“Hindi pwede sila, hindi pwedeng tayo, kundi tayong lahat. Kaya sama-sama nating i-angat ang nutrisyon ng mga kabataan dahil we are chosen, because we can! Kayo ay napili para maging piloto sa ibang lokal na pamahalaan sa Region 10. (None of them can do it, and neither can we alone. If we all come together, we can totally make it happen! Let’s team up and boost the nutrition of the youth because we’ve been chosen for this mission. Let’s make a positive impact together),” Abdullah B. Dumana Jr. Undersecretary for Field Implementation and Coordination Team-Mindanao said.

Among 17 target regions, Northern Mindanao is one of the PMNP recipients.

Lanao del Norte and Bukidnon provinces were identified as implementing sites. Four Bukidnon towns: Talakag, Cabanglasan, Kalilangan, and San Fernando, were identified as pilot areas.

The four-year PMNP seeks to enhance the nutritional status of children aged five and below, including pregnant and lactating women, through a comprehensive approach covering health and nutrition services, food security, livelihood, water, sanitation, hygiene, and behavior change communication.

Bukidnon is one of the recipients of this project geared towards adopting a bold and multisectoral approach to achieve nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions across various barangays in identified areas of the province.

DOH and DSWD, along with NNC, DA, DILG, NEDA, DBM, DOST, NCIP, and National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, jointly urged the LGUs, private sector, and communities to actively participate in addressing the prevalence of childhood stunting and nutritional deficiencies.

DOH Undersecretary Dumama Jr. led the Pledge of Commitment signing that conveyed the active participation of Gov. Rogelio Neil Roque, DILG Regional Director Wilhelm Suyko, and representatives from various partner agencies, all coming together to demonstrate their dedication to the cause. (BGE/PIA-Bukidnon)

CHO distributes permethrin lotion to scabies patients in Malaybalay

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On August 02, 2023, the Malaybalay City Health Office (CHO) distributed Permethrin lotion to patients affected by scabies

This initiative took place in New Mexico, Barangay Bangcud.

Scabies, a skin infection caused by mites, can lead to discomfort and itching. Permethrin lotion, recognized as the preferred treatment, was distributed to alleviate symptoms and aid in the healing process.

Among the key figures present during the distribution were Dr. Jude Rey Pagaling, and Leonamie Melliston, RN, Assistant Coordinator for CESU. Also in attendance were April Nicole U. Aurita, RN, representing the Department of Health (DOH-DSO), and Elizabeth Salvanera, RM, DOH Midwife for Barangay Bangcud.

This concerted effort demonstrates healthcare professionals’ dedication to improving the community’s well-being by providing essential treatments and care. (LGU Malaybalay)

138K ka mga bata sa Bukidnon target mabakunahan

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MALAYBALAY CITY – Target sa Department of Health (DOH) nga mabakunahan ang 95% sa kapin 138,000 nga populasyon sa mga kabataan sa Bukidnon

Base sa pinakaulahing record sa DOH-Bukidnon, 42% na ang nabakunahan sa Measles ug Rubella, samtang 48% usab ang bakunado sa Polio sukad gilunsad ang “Chikiting Ligtas” niadtong Mayo 2.

Nanawagan si DOH-Bukidnon Chief Dr. Vincent Raguro nga pahimuslan kini nga higayon tungod kay kada tulo ka tuig lang ginapahigayon kini nga immunization program.

Sumala ni Raguro, niadtong tuig 2020 pa ulahing nagpahigayon og “Chikiting Ligtas” program. Ninety-seven percent (97%) sa populasyon ang ilang nabakunahan sa tuig 2020, diin nilapas sila sa 95% nga target.

Busa padayon ang panawagan sa DOH, sa tanang mga ginikanan nga dunay mga anak nga nag-edad zero hangtud 59 ka bulan nga magpabakuna aron dili sila dali madutlan sa mga sakit sama sa Tipdas, Rubella ug Polio. (BGE/PIA Bukidnon)

CHO celebrates Rabies Awareness Month; Malaybalay records zero case of human rabies in 2022

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Rabies is one of the deadly diseases and considered one of the public health concerns

As part of the health promotion and advocacy of the Rabies Prevention Control Program of the Center for Health and Development – Northern Mindanao in coordination with Bukidnon Provincial Health Office and Malaybalay City Health Office (CHO), a Rabies Awareness Caravan was conducted on March 16, 2023, at Loiza’s Pavilion, Casisang, Malaybalay City.

This activity aims to increase awareness about rabies infection, prevention, control, and elimination.

The said event started with a motorcade from City Health Office to Capitol then Loizas Pavilion where a forum was held.

A total of 145 participants attended the launching each represented by Barangay Kapitan, Kagawad on Health, Chief BPSO, Midwife, and BHW president from all Poblacion 1, selected Poblacion 2, and Highway District Barangays.

Provincial Health Office II, Dr. Gary Guido C. Tabios, Jr., welcomed the guests and participants. Then followed by an inspirational message from Dr. Vincent C. Raguro, MPH (Provincial Department of Health Office Bukidnon – Development Management Officer V).

With the theme “Rabies- Free na Pusa’t Aso, Kaligtasan ng Pamilyang Pilipino”, speaker Ms. Jenny Alabado, RMT, Regional Rabies Coordinator stressed that “Rabies is a horrific way to die. Once symptoms show, it is 99.9% fatal. However, it is 100% preventable.”

Meanwhile, speaker Dr. Enrique Miguel Degamo, MPH, MO III, added that Dogs are primarily responsible for rabies virus transmission to humans.

Among the topics tackled, Dr. Mary Ann S. Valdez, Veterinarian IV, Malaybalay City Veterinary Office also discussed about RA 9482, or Anti- Rabies Act of 2007, prescribing penalties for pet owners violating this act.

Provincial Health Office Rabies Prevention and Control Program Coordinator, Mr. Carlo C. Calleja, have reported Rabies Case Status of Bukidnon and Malaybalay City has Zero case of Human Rabies for year 2022.

The activity was facilitated by the City Health Office Rabies Team, Dr. Susan Marie S. PunongBayan, Nurse Coordinator Maila A. Manuel, Assitant Nurse Coordinator Frances Charmaine Lazalita, Marlyn Bagonoc, staffs Noel Michael Mutya, Daphne Castillo with the help of the National Health Worker Support System – Nurse Deployment Program of the Department of Health.

Further, Dr. Susan Punongbayan reminded us about ONE Health approach that helps protect the health of all living beings and imparted a closing phrase “Kagat Aso, Patay Tao.”

In addition, the City Health Office – Rabies Prevention and Control Program continues to provide services through the presence of our Animal Bite Center which is open every Monday and Thursday at the CHO, and via information dissemination by doing lectures and distribution of leaflets with the help of the Midwives, Human Resource for Health and Community Volunteer Health Workers in the Barangays.

Malaybalay City Veterinary Office also assisted during the activity to provide free Dog vaccination. (PR)

Super Health Center to rise in Pangantucan

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PANGANTUCAN, Bukidnon – Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go led the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Center facility in far-off barangay Bacusanon, Pangantucan, Bukidnon, on March 3

Go said the center would provide vital health services with specialized health facilities at the local level, such as an outpatient department, laboratory, X-ray, ultrasound, birthing services, diagnostics, pharmacy, and emergency services.
Asked about the distinction between Malasakit Center and Super Health Center, the Senator explained that the Super Health Center is a medium-sized polyclinic larger than a rural health center but not as big as a hospital.
“I express great bliss that the Department of Health (DOH) chose a strategic location here in town. The government will build additional 20 Super Health Centers in Northern Mindanao this year, with six in Bukidnon, four in Cagayan de Oro, three in Lanao del Norte, two in Misamis Occidental, and five in Misamis Oriental,” Go said.
DOH-10 Regional Director Jose R. Llacuna Jr. emphasized that establishing a Super Health Facility would help decongest other health facilities, as it will supplement rural health centers in the province.
“The goal is to bring government services closer to the people,” he said.
Fourth District Representative Laarni Roque thanked Senator Go for building projects in her district. She said that the Super Health Center would immensely help the people of Barangay Bacusanon, which does not have a government hospital.
Meanwhile, Pangantucan Mayor Miguel A. Silva Jr. urged his constituents to take good care of the government projects.
“Not all cities or towns are fortunate enough to receive such facility. I urge our villagers here to take good care of this Super Health Center,” the mayor said. (BGE/PIA-10/Bukidnon)