DOH-7 on “code white alert”

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Health Central Visayas Center for Health and Development (DOH-CVCHD) has declared a Code White Alert for the entire Yuletide Season.

The alert, which started in December 16 and will last until January 6, 2025, is aimed at ensuring readiness for hospitals and all healthcare facilities to respond to medical emergencies.

This comes in anticipation of an increase in injuries and health-related incidents during the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

DOH-CVCHD regional epidemiologist Dr. Eugenia Mercedes Cañal emphasized the importance of implementing safety measures during the holidays, particularly regarding fireworks use.

“Atong balikon ang Executive Order 28 nga nag regulate sa atong fireworks and firecrackers. It promotes community fireworks display and prohibits firecrackers or pyrotechnic devices that should be within the household,” said Cañal.

Data from the health department showed that from 2022 to 2023, there were 83 recorded firework-related injuries in the region. The victims’ ages ranged from 2 to 82 years old, with a median age of 15.

In Cebu Province alone, there were 39 recorded fireworks-related injuries making up 47 percent of the total cases. Cebu City, Bohol, and other highly urbanized cities (HUCs) also reported numbers of injuries.

Cañal noted that such injuries are often caused by unsupervised children picking up firecrackers.

This is why she reminded the public to be aware of the dangers of firecrackers. Children should be away from fireworks, avoiding exploding firecrackers, not picking up used firecrackers, and seeking immediate medical treatment for injuries.

In addition, the most common firecrackers causing injuries are kwitis, lantaka, triangle, whistle bomb, fountain, thunder, five-star, hotdog, and baby rocket.

Meanwhile, Dr. Shelbay Blanco, Medical Officer IV of DOH-CVCHD, in a separate media conference shared that the public should consider safer alternatives such as making noise with pots, pans, and coins.

“Ang importante lang kay dili ta makuhaan og parte sa lawas inig sugat nato sa bag-ong tuig,” said Blanco.

Aside from fireworks-related injuries, DOH-CVCHD is also preparing for other emergencies during the holiday season, such as vehicular accidents, food-borne illnesses, and cases related to excessive alcohol consumption.

Improperly prepared food, high cholesterol levels, and excessive sugar consumption are common issues that lead to health problems like diabetes and hypertension.

Blanco advised the public to ensure that food is prepared safely and to get health screenings ahead of the holidays.

“As much as possible we have to make sure nga ang atong gipang serve, atong gipang kaon is healthy and safe for our body,” said Blanco.

Cañal expressed concern over the number of drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol or use mobile phones while driving.

In giving gifts to children, the public are advised in purchasing lead-free toys. Toys with high lead content pose a risk of poisoning, which can have long-term health effects.

Moreover, the health department also encouraged those who are traveling or returning home to wear face masks especially if they have a cough or flu. — /FPL (FREEMAN)