The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public to be vigilant as there are possible health risks if exposed to sulfur dioxide emissions and ashfall amid the continued volcanic activities of the Taal Volcano.

The DOH “advises the public residing in high-risk areas to be vigilant and heed the warnings of Phivolcs and your local government units,” it said in a statement.

DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that sulfur dioxide emission may irritate one’s eyes, skin, and may have a negative effect on the respiratory system.

“Kailangan lang na magsuot ng mask...Nagbibigay tayo ngayon ng N95 masks para dIyan sa mga tao near the Taal volcano because this is more efficient. Mas kailangan nila nitong N95 mask to prevent inhalation ng ganitong emission (You just have to wear a mask ... We are now providing N95 masks for those near the Taal volcano because this is more efficient. They need this N95 mask to prevent inhalation of this emission),” said Vergeire during an online forum on Friday, July 2.

Vergeire also advised residents near the Taal volcano to avoid going out of their homes if unnecessary.

“Kung kailangan talagang lumabas, maaring mag goggles or N95 mask at magsuot ng mahahabang damit para hindi ma-irritate ang ating skin (If you really need to go out, you can wear goggles or a N95 mask and wear long clothes so as not to irritate your skin),” she said.

“Kung maari isarado ang mga pinto at bintana sa inyong bahay para hindi pumasok ang hangin na dala dala ang emission nitong sulfur dioxide (You can also close the doors and windows of your house, so that the air that carries the emission of sulfur dioxide does not enter),” she added.

The DOH also cautioned the public on the health effects of volcanic ash.

“Exposure to falling ash may cause a number of health problems. Anyone who already suffers from problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma, should avoid exposure to volcanic ash,” it said.

The affected residents must stay indoors as much as possible and “keep home from infiltration by using damp curtains, blankets, or clothing.”

“Wear goggles or eyeglasses to protect eyes from irritation. Keep pets in closed shelters. Dampen ash in your yard to prevent it from billowing up into the air. (And), Clear your roof of ash,” the DOH said.

The DOH also reminded the public to prepare the necessary things before going to evacuation sites.

“For those residing in high-risk areas who are more likely to evacuate, DOH advises to prepare your go bags ahead of time.,” it said.

It must contain clothes and hygiene kits, drinking water or purification tablets, non-perishable foods like canned goods, biscuits, among others; medicines and first aid kit, flashlight, emergency batteries or power banks, face masks and face shield, as well as Insect repellent or mosquito nets.

If already inside the evacuation center, the DOH said that the affected residents should always follow the minimum public health protocols.

“As much as possible, maintain physical distance of at least one meter from people outside your household and ensure proper ventilation inside the evacuation center,” it said.

“Keep the evacuation center clean to avoid vector-borne diseases,” DOH added.