Jhayber Jet L. Andrade
2013 - 00874
6 S’s of Common Summer Diseases in the Philippines
Summer has officially come. It is a great time to relax under the sun, travel to different places especially in
beaches and resorts, do some outdoor activities and have bonding with family and friends. But it is also means
an increasing risk of getting some diseases common during these times.
It is called the 6 S’s of common summer diseases and it includes sore eyes, sunburn, sipon at ubo (colds and
cough), suka at tae (vomiting and diarrhea), sakit sa balat (skin diseases), and sakmal ng aso (dog bites).
The Department of Health (DOH) is always continuing to remind the public of these common diseases acquired
during summer every year. These are some of the things you need to know to maintain a good physical
condition and to enjoy your summer despite of the heat.
1. Sore Eyes
It is also known as conjunctivitis. It is the inflammation of the conjunctiva or the layer between
the eyelid and the eyeball. It is a common eye disease especially to children during summer and can be
highly contagious.
It’s is commonly cause by a viral infection but can also be a bacterial infection or allergy. Some
of the common symptoms include redness of the eyes, itchiness, sensitivity to light, and a discharge
from the eyes.
Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent having sore eyes. Make sure to wash always
your hands with soap and clean water before you touch your face or eyes. Use also a clean towel or
handkerchief when wiping your face. Consult a doctor if you think you have conjunctivitis to give you a
proper treatment.
2. Sunburn
Sunburn is one of the most common conditions acquired during summer. It occurs when
someone has been exposed to the sun for a long period of time. Their skin becomes red and irritated, and
they feel a burning sensation over the affected area. There are also some blisters for some cases. Severe
sunburn may lead to skin cancer and melanoma.
To prevent this from happening, put some sunscreen or sunblock with sun protection factor
(SPF) before going into the sun. Avoid also going outside between 10 am – 2pm since UV rays are
strongest during those times. Hats, caps, sunglasses, and umbrellas can also be useful to block the sun’s
rays hitting directly your skin.
3. Sipon at Ubo (Colds and Cough)
Colds and cough are examples of communicable disease and easily spreads even during summer
months. They are easily passed on especially on those people who have weakened immunity.
Most of the time, an airborne virus causes colds and coughs. Other mode of transmission
includes direct contact with an infected object or surfaces like cellphones, door knobs, computer
keyboards, and then touches his nose and mouth. It can also be having an interaction with people who
these diseases. Some cases are caused by an allergic reaction to dust, pollen, and dirt.
Colds and cough maybe part of a more serious health problems like pneumonia, tuberculosis, and
bronchitis and should be taken seriously.
Some of the symptoms of common colds are runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion while
cough caused by a viral infection may result in fever, headache, and pains.
Washing your hands with soap and clean water is the best way to prevent these diseases to
spread. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very important. Sufficient sleep, having a balanced diet, and
exercise can boost the immune system.
4. Suka at Tae (Vomiting and Diarrhea)
During summer, food contamination has higher risk due to intense heat that will lead to food
spoilage which causes vomiting and diarrhea. Diarrhea is a condition where there is an increase of bowel
movements that may lead to dehydration, electrolyte (mineral) abnormalities, and irritation of the anus if
neglected. People who have contacted with different bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella can also have
diarrhea.
Besides from vomiting and loose bowel movements, other possible symptoms of diarrhea
includes abdominal pain, fever, and in some cases blood in their stools.
Proper food handling and preparation is the best way to prevent diarrhea. Heat the potable water
and let boil for about two (2) minutes then cool. The boiled water can be used immediately. Washing
hands with soap and clean water before eating is also important.
5. Sakit sa Balat (Skin Diseases)
During summer, different skin diseases caused by fungal infections are pretty common due to hot
and humid weather. Examples of these are athlete’s foot (Tinea Pedis) and an-an (Tinea versicolor).
Athlete’s foot may occur if the foot gets wet in closed shoes due to heat and sweat while an-an is due to
overgrowth of yeast in the body.
Some of the symptoms of athlete’s foot are itching and burning sensation between toes and sole
of the feet, and cracking and peeling of the skin in the feet. Patches of skin discoloration, mild itching,
and scaling of the affected part are symptoms of an-an.
Keeping the skin clean and dry is the number one thing to do. Make sure the clothes, including
underwear, are all clean. Avoid walking around barefoot and always wash your feet to prevent athlete’s
foot.
6. Sakmal ng Aso (Dog bite)
Dog bites especially from stray dogs are the number one cause of rabies in the Philippines.
Rabies is a disease that affects the central nervous system that comprises the brain and the spinal cord,
and can be deadly if neglected.
Rabies is caused by entering of infected saliva into the bloodstream via bite of an animal or
exposure of cuts and wounds to the saliva. Some of the symptoms of rabies are fever, hallucinations,
convulsions, restlessness, and hydrophobia or the fear of water.
To prevent rabies, do not approach non-domesticated animals. Make sure also that your pets such
as dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies.
People who are bitten by an infected animal (dogs, cats and others) should go straight away to
hospitals to get anti-rabies immediately. Washing the bitten part with soap and clean water is also
recommended as first aid before rushing to the hospital.
Always remember these tips for a happy and stress-free summer vacation!
Sources:
 https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision
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conditions/conjunctivitis
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-conjunctivitis#1
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/sunburn#2
https://www.manilashaker.com/6s-six-common-summer-diseases/
https://www.manilashaker.com/6s-six-common-summer-diseases/
https://www.healthline.com/health/athletes-foot#symptoms
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tinea-versicolor/symptoms-causes/syc-20378385
https://www.medicinenet.com/diarrhea/article.htm#diarrhea_definition_and_facts
https://medlineplus.gov/diarrhea.html
https://www.rappler.com/life-and-style/wellness/54651-summer-diseases-prevention
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/244873/boil-or-purify-water-to-avoid-diarrhea-outbreaks-doh