Bacolod City Battles Both Rotavirus and Typhoid Outbreaks

In the Philippines, the Bacolod City Health Office (CHO) recently issued an advisory regarding increasing cases of rotavirus and typhoid.

Typhoid is caused by the bacteria salmonella typhi, which spreads through contaminated food and water or close contact with an infected person.

Data showed that from January to March 22, some 27 cases of typhoid, also known as enteric fever, were reported, compared to only 11 cases during the same period in 2024.

Meanwhile, the CHO reported 74 cases of rotavirus, the most common cause of severe diarrhea among children, during the same period in 2025.

The top risk factor for rotavirus is poor sanitation and hygiene, leading to contamination of food and water.

In its advisory, the CHO said prevention includes washing hands with soap and clean water after using the toilet and before eating, as well as drinking only clear water. If unsure, boil water for three minutes or chlorinate water.

“Go to the nearest barangay health station or center, or consult with your physician if experiencing signs and symptoms of typhoid fever,” Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO Environment Sanitation Division, said in a press release on April 2, 2025.

Bacolod City, located on the northwest coast of Negros Island in the Philippines, has become a tourist favorite and was visited by over 800,000 people last year.

The U.S. CDC's Travel Health Advisory for the Philippines recommends vaccination for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

When departing from the United States in 2025, most travel clinics and pharmacies offer vaccines that prevent both typhoid and rotavirus.

Additionally, the CDC highlights vaccines for chikungunya, dengue, and measles when visiting the Philippines.