By Mike Crismundo BUTUAN CITY – Health authorities alerted the general public against sore eyes or conjunctivitis, heat stroke, and skin diseases which are prevalent during summer. Department of Health (MANILA BULLETIN) The regional office of the Department of Health (DOH) in Northeastern Mindanao or Caraga region said sore eyes, sunburn, cough and colds, stomach ailments and skin diseases “tend to be prevalent during summer.” According to DOH 13 officials sore eyes or conjunctivitis could lead to blindness when mistreated due to harmful bacteria or viruses that can easily spread to other people. Health authorities also said sunburn can be prevented if people avoid direct exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and use sunscreen appropriately for skin protection. They said too much exposure to sun can also cause heat stroke. DOH 13 Regional Director Dr. Jose R. Llacuna, Jr. advised the general public to drink eight to 12 glasses of water a day to prevent heat stroke and dehydration, especially Holy Week penitents. He also advised Caraganons and vacationers to boost their immune system by eating fruits and vegetables and by having enough rest or sleep as cough and colds easily spread this summer season. Diarrhea is another common disease during summer that is associated with the consumption of contaminated food or drinks. Food spoils easily during summer months so the public should be cautious of foods they bring when they travel, it said. Health officials here advised that the sources even containers of water should be clean and not contaminated by bacteria that might cause stomach trouble. The public was also warned against bathing in dirty or poorly maintained public swimming pools. With the threat posed by these common diseases, the regional office of DOH 13 urged the general public to practice proper hand washing, proper hygiene, and to avoid crowded areas.