MindanaoToday.com | DOH, PHO launch task forces to combat schistosomiasis in Bukidnon
By: Bernadith G. Epan
MALAYBALAY CITY -The Bukidnon Provincial Health Office is ramping up efforts to eliminate schistosomiasis by establishing Local Schistosomiasis Task Forces in endemic areas.
Led by the Department of Health (DOH)-Schistosomiasis Control and Elimination Program, this aims to achieve sustainable disease control by working across different sectors.
Schistosomiasis is a chronic parasitic disease prevalent in rural areas, caused by an infection from worms of the Schistosoma genus. Its transmission is through contact with contaminated water.
Key stakeholders from health, engineering, environmental management, animal control, and legislative bodies convened in a two-day event to discuss innovative strategies for schistosomiasis elimination. The focus was on reinforcing the importance of collaboration across sectors.
Dr. John Daniel Estandarte from DOH-10 stressed the need for comprehensive interventions.
“Eliminating schistosomiasis requires more than just medication and health education. We must address the root causes through engineering solutions, improved irrigation practices, environmental controls, and animal management, all supported by strong legislative action and good governance,” Estandarte said.
To ensure the task forces’ efficacy, the DOH will work with the health office in Bukidnon to closely monitor them and provide the assistance they need.
Planners target to equip the task forces with the expertise to combat schistosomiasis through additional training and capacity-building
Sergio Flores, the provincial schistosomiasis coordinator, said these task forces will implement and supervise snail control measures to interrupt the transmission cycle of schistosomiasis.
The disease poses public health challenges, particularly affecting agricultural workers and communities reliant on freshwater sources. The government works to reduce the disease burden through mass drug administration, snail control, and health education initiatives to prevent infection and promote safe water practices.
Engr. Florissa Adviento, the sanitation engineer and head of the environmental and occupational health section, called on local government units, community leaders, and residents to join the fight against schistosomiasis.
“Creating local schistosomiasis task forces marks a significant step forward in this fight, promising a healthier future. We can achieve a schistosomiasis-free Philippines with collective action,” Adviento said.
Participants, including local government officials, health workers, community leaders, and representatives from various sectors, pledged to work together to eradicate schistosomiasis. Their commitment underscores a unified effort, combining resources and expertise to tackle this deadly disease and improve the health and well-being of affected communities. (BGE/PIA 10-Bukidnon)
###