31 tested positive for Hepatitis A; 59 being monitored in Bukidnon

VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon —At least 31 people were confirmed positive for Hepatitis A in Bukidnon, as health authorities continue to closely monitor 59 others in a bid to contain the spread of the outbreak in this city.

Latest data from the City Health Office showed that confirmed cases include 26 in Barangay Lurugan and five in neighboring Barangay San Carlos.The monitored records also include 59 suspected cases and 48 people who tested negative, as health personnel continue validating patient files to ensure accurate data.

READ: Valencia City seeks confirmatory tests for 73 suspected Hepatitis A casesIn response, the Valencia City government, through its Environmental Sanitation and Occupational Health Section (ESOHS), has deployed teams for ongoing case investigations, health education, and sanitation inspections of local food vendors and establishments.Aron Rempohito Apostol, Public Information and Assistance Division chief, confirmed to the Inquirer that laboratory test results released on October 12 showed three water samples—taken from Lurugan National High School and residential areas in Puroks 4 and 13—passed microbiological standards and were declared safe.Following the initial surge in Hepatitis A cases, Barangay Lurugan officials temporarily banned ambulant vendors from selling prepared and cooked food.Health authorities lifted the temporary restriction on Wednesday as they reinforced strict food safety compliance, he said.They now require food handlers to maintain valid health cards, wear hairnets, and use face masks when feeling unwell.The CHO is also expanding its outreach through the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Schools program to promote safe drinking water, proper handwashing, and sanitary restroom conditions.Meanwhile, the city government is coordinating hospital evaluations for suspected patients to ensure prompt medical intervention and reliable laboratory verifications.

READ: Bukidnon’s Valencia City logs 73 suspected Hepatitis A casesHepatitis A is a highly contagious viral liver infection typically spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person.Health officials advise the public to wash their hands frequently, drink only safe water, maintain food hygiene, and seek immediate medical attention when experiencing symptoms./coa