The City Health Office (CHO) conducted the “Schistosomiasis Forum” at the garden party venue in Brgy. Sumpong, Malaybalay City on January 17, 2024, drawing together key stakeholders in the fight against this neglected tropical disease.

The event aimed to address the persistent public health challenge posed by schistosomiasis, particularly in marginalized and vulnerable groups, including children, indigenous communities, pregnant women, and women of reproductive age.

The forum was attended by barangay captains, kagawad on health, midwives from 17 schistosomiasis-endemic barangays, as well as representatives from 6 non-endemic barangays. Notable participants included Hon. Kathleen Cecille Pagaling, City Councilor, Dennis P. Sangalang and Melirose S. Deticio, both MD CHO II and MD CHO I respectively, Susan Marie S. Punongbayan, MD – Communicable Medical Coordinator, and Jade Gales – Hera, MD – Forensic Medical Coordinator.

Engr. Florissa Adviento, the Sanitation Engineer and Environmental and Occupational Health Section Head of the Provincial Health Office, also attended, along with Sergio Flores – Provincial Schisto Coordinator (PHO), Jenny Jane S. Jumamoy – Sanitation Inspector I, Kharl Karen T. Libot – Schistosomiasis Nurse Coordinator, and nurses Emilie Jane Hazel Estrada and Nicole Aurita.

The forum tackled various aspects of schistosomiasis, including the life cycle, treatment, and prevention strategies. Participants were briefed on the 2023 accomplishments in the fight against the disease and were provided insights into the plans for 2024.

The event concluded with an open forum, allowing for valuable discussions and collaborative efforts to strengthen the community’s response to schistosomiasis.

Report: CHO-NADA