By Analou De Vera

The Department of Health (DOH) has cautioned the public against the threat of different water-borne diseases that may be caused by the improper storage of water.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said that improper storage of water may cause other diseases aside from being a mosquito-breeding sites.

“Water, itself, can be contaminated by different bacteria, like e-coli, hepatitis, and others. It’s not just dengue,” he said.

Such bacteria may cause illnesses like acute gastroenteritis and diarrhea, he added.

“We must be careful, responsible, and understand that the water we store must be protected from the threats of bacteria, which can cause various diseases,” said the health chief.

He also reminded the public to cover their water containers properly to prevent breeding of dengue carrying- mosquitos.

“As we have warned earlier, these can be breeding sites for mosquitos that can aid the spread of dengue,” he said.

“We appeal to mothers and fathers to really cover water containers properly,” he added.