Former Health Secretary turned lawmaker, Janette Garin, has advised women to forgo wearing underwear at home during the hot season to prevent fungal infections. In a statement to reporters, Garin emphasized the risks posed by heat and humidity to female genitalia, stating, “Iyung candida albicans na nasa balat ay dadami siya kaya siya nagiging makati.” She clarified that such infections are not sexually transmitted and encouraged keeping the intimate area dry for prevention.
“Huwag siyang kamutin at hindi iyan nakakahawa ano. Kasi iyung iba akala nila sexually transmitted. No, it’s not,” Garin explained, advocating for proper ventilation and moisture control to avoid exacerbating fungal infections.
Garin, who served as Health Secretary from 2015-2016, also emphasized the importance of hydration to prevent heat stroke, urging the public to drink water regularly and avoid sun exposure during peak hours.
Addressing concerns about vaccine availability amid a pertussis outbreak, Garin criticized past Department of Health leadership for poor planning. Reflecting on her tenure as Health chief, she acknowledged the controversy surrounding the dengvaxia vaccine campaign, noting its role in the vaccine scare in the Philippines following Sanofi Pasteur’s warning about increased dengue fever risks.
