DOH bans infant formula donations at evacuation centers

MANILA, Philippines - Donations of infant formula are not allowed in evacuation centers in areas affected by Typhoon Ruby, an official of the Department of Health (DOH) said yesterday.

 Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin said the “no milk donation policy” is being implemented at the evacuation centers, citing an increase in gastroenteritis cases with the use of donated milk formulas in the past.

“Exclusive breastfeeding for infants up to six months of age must be continued. The DOH is working with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and local health authorities to ensure that evacuation centers are mother and baby friendly,” she said in a bulletin.

The ban is in line with the Milk Code of the Philippines, she added.

Garin earlier ordered that pregnant women displaced by the typhoon be brought to the nearest government hospitals to ensure their and their babies safety.

She said sick children in evacuation centers should also be transferred to government health facilities for proper management.

The DOH is coordinating with local health authorities for the free vaccination of evacuees aged six months and below five years against measles and polio. 

 It also wanted children evacuees to be given Vitamin A supplement.

To prevent the outbreak of diseases among evacuees, Garin advised them to boil water for drinking and cooking for at least two minutes.

The acting health chief has urged the public to practice proper hand washing before and after eating and before and after using the toilet.

She also advised those living in flooded areas to avoid wading or wear protective gear like boots in floodwaters to prevent leptospirosis.

 Garin added that all wounds should be cleaned with soap and water.

 Wounded persons were advised to consult the nearest government health facility within 24 hours for anti-tetanus shots and antibiotics.