Typhoid fever outbreak hits Cebu town, 18 residents confined

CEBU CITY — Eighteen residents in Barangay Gunting, Barili town in southwestern Cebu, are currently confined at the local infirmary after contracting typhoid fever, with authorities investigating possible links to the area's water sources.

Barili Mayor John-John Garcia confirmed the outbreak on Jan. 27 following an investigation by the Barili Primary Care Facility (PCF) team. The team is closely examining two water sources in the area.

One source, Belgian Spring, has been identified as a drinking water source by the affected residents and is undergoing additional water quality testing.

Another water source, previously marked with a "Not Safe for Drinking" sign, which has since been removed, is also under review. A cow was reportedly seen near this secondary water source, about 60 meters away.

Garcia further revealed that one out of five households closest to the inspected water source lacks a functional comfort room, while the others are properly equipped. These households are located within a 100- to 112-meter radius of the water sources under investigation.

To address the situation, the Barili PCF team has begun distributing aqua tabs and chlorine to the residents in the affected area.

"Right now, the Barili PCF Team is going house to house distributing aqua tabs and chlorine to those in the affected area," Garcia said.

Meantime, Belgian Spring will be temporarily closed while authorities continue assessing which households have been depending on it for drinking water. Those identified will receive chlorinated water, and residents will also undergo hygiene and sanitation orientations to promote proper handwashing and cleanliness.

Garcia urged residents to ensure their drinking water and households are clean, and to follow proper hygiene practices. "Make sure to wash regularly, especially after using the bathroom," he advised.

The local government is closely monitoring the situation and implementing measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi, spreads primarily through contaminated food or water and can lead to serious symptoms such as prolonged high fever, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, nausea and either constipation or diarrhea. Without timely treatment, it can lead to severe complications or death.

Preventive measures include safe drinking water, good hygiene practices and proper sanitation. Health authorities, including the World Health Organization, also recommend vaccination, particularly for people in areas where typhoid fever is common.