DOH advises public to stay indoors, wear dust masks against ashfall
By Gabriela Baron
The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday released guidelines on how to cope with ashfall following the phreatic explosion at the Taal Volcano.
Plumes of smoke and ash rise from as Taal Volcano erupts Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, in Tagaytay, Cavite province, outside Manila, Philippines (AP Photo/Aaron Favila/DOH/MANILA BULLETIN)
DOH warned that exposure to falling ash "may cause a number of health problems."
It added that those who are suffering from health problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma should avoid exposure to volcanic ash.
DOH listed the following as some of the health effects of the ashfall:
Plumes of smoke and ash rise from as Taal Volcano erupts Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020, in Tagaytay, Cavite province, outside Manila, Philippines (AP Photo/Aaron Favila/DOH/MANILA BULLETIN)
DOH warned that exposure to falling ash "may cause a number of health problems."
It added that those who are suffering from health problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma should avoid exposure to volcanic ash.
DOH listed the following as some of the health effects of the ashfall:
- Â nose and throat irritation
- coughing
- bronchitis-like illness
- discomfort while breathing
- eye irritation
- minor skin problems
- injuries/death due to roof collapse or vehicular accident resulting from slippery roads and poor visibility
- Â Minimize exposure to ash
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- Keep doors and windows closed
- Keep home from infiltration by using damp curtains, blankets, or clothing
- Use dust masks
- Wear goggles or eyeglasses to protect eyes from irritation
- Keep pets in closed shelter
- Clear your roof of ash