Rabies Awareness: Key Insights into Its Continued Risk to Humans

SOURCE: PIA 10

In a recent discussion held in the Talakayan sa PIA: Konsultayo Series, Dr. Magdalena Juan, a medical expert from the Family Medicine of Northern Mindanao Medical Center, emphasized the deadly nature of rabies. She clarified that once symptoms appear, the disease is invariably fatal. 

Pets, particularly dogs and cats, account for most rabies-related fatalities. In Region 10, statistics indicate that around 70% of incidents involve dog bites while 30% are from other animals. Cats typically account for 20% of these cases, and their scratches are often the cause of death.

Dr. Juan explained, "They may be small, but their claws are sharp. If they puncture the skin, it can be deep, bringing the virus closer to the nerve, increasing the risk of a rabies infection. Rabies primarily impacts the nerves."

She reminded everyone that bites or scratches from potentially rabid animals should be thoroughly washed with water for at least 15 minutes to try and remove the virus. This is also the reason why medical professionals avoid stitching bite wounds as it may drive the virus deeper into the nerve tissue, leading to infection.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. This transmission can occur through bites, scratches, and even through contact with an infected animal's saliva on thin-skinned body parts such as the eyes or mouth.

In case of a bite, Dr. Juan advises immediate washing of the wound and seeking medical help at the nearest health center. In Cagayan de Oro, several public health facilities offer free services, including the City Health Office, JR Borja Hospital, NMMC, and the Barangay Health Center in Carmen.

Unfortunately, there were several deaths in the region due to rabies in recent years. Children are often the victims as they tend not to disclose being bitten due to fear of punishment. Dr. Juan urged parents to maintain an open line of communication with their children to prevent such tragic outcomes.

To further prevent the spread of rabies, a program known as rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) exists. Despite not being included in the government's free services, individuals can privately purchase it for their families' protection. 

Lastly, Dr. Juan encouraged pet owners to have their animals vaccinated. The government's veterinary office offers these vaccinations free of charge. She emphasized that responsible pet ownership can significantly reduce the number of deaths from domestic animals.

Navigating the Rising Tide: Unveiling the Inflation Surge in Region 10

SOURCE: PIA 10

In the vibrant economic landscape of Northern Mindanao, a new chapter unfolds. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Region 10 has recently unveiled intriguing data on the region's inflation. The narrative of the average price change of goods and services has taken a captivating turn, shedding light on the region's economic dynamics.

Sarah Balagbis, the esteemed chief statistical specialist of PSA-10, has brought the spotlight on the inflationary uptick from 3.1 percent in January 2024 to 3.4 percent in February. A seemingly small yet significant change, this 0.3 percentage point acceleration prompts us to delve deeper into the intricacies of economic influences.

The inflationary narrative of February was marked by key sectors such as Transport, Furnishings, Household Equipment, Routine Household Maintenance, and Health. Each of these sectors encompassed a series of factors contributing to the rise in inflation, painting a comprehensive picture of the economic scenario.

The transport sector's journey from a -1.3 percent inflation rate in January 2024 to 1.6 percent in February is noteworthy. Gasoline, other passenger transport by road, and diesel have all played their part in this dramatic turn of events, propelling inflation forward.

Equally compelling is the inflationary tale of the Furnishings, Household Equipment, and Routine Household Maintenance sector. An inflation rate of 4.6 percent in February, up from 2.6 percent in January 2024, has been spurred by domestic services, household cleaning, maintenance products, and leading laundry appliances.

The health sector too has experienced a surge in inflation, with a jump from 1.8 percent in January to 3.4 percent in February. Inpatient curative and rehabilitative services, medicines, vaccines, and other pharmaceutical preparations have been the key players in this escalation.

The inflationary tale varies across the region. Misamis Occidental recorded a significant increase from 0.2 percent in January to 2.1 percent in February. Bukidnon, on the other hand, registered the highest inflation rate in February at 5.1 percent. Iligan City and Misamis Occidental reported the lowest rates at 2.1 percent.

Ferdinand Caraballe, the supervising agriculturist of the Department of Agriculture-10, is forecasting a decrease in rice prices due to the dry season harvest. As rice is a major driver of inflation, this projection brings a glimmer of hope for a potential decrease in overall inflation.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-10, under the watchful eye of Planning Officer Blessie Cimacio, reassures the public of its ongoing monitoring of basic necessities prices and prime commodities. This proactive approach aims to manage inflation effectively, ensuring the economic welfare of the region's inhabitants.

DTI's efforts extend beyond mere price monitoring. Through the Kapatid Mentor ME program, DTI offers a helping hand to micro, small, and medium enterprises. Additionally, the department also provides interventions for producers of commodity products such as coffee and cacao, contributing to the robust economic ecosystem of the region.

While the inflationary wave presents challenges, the collective efforts of various sectors and government agencies foster resilience and adaptability. As we navigate these economic tides, the evolving narrative of Region 10's inflation continues to captivate, instruct, and inspire.