DOH warns of adverse health effects due to Taal eruption
Published Jan 13, 2020 12:00 am
By Analou De Vera
The Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public against the adverse health effects brought about by the eruption of Taal Volcano on Sunday and its continuing activity which may lead to more eruptions.
Department of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III (CZAR DANCEL / MANILA BULLETIN)
The DOH reminded the public to remain vigilant and follow the advisories of authorities.
"The DOH urges residents of Taal Volcano Island and nearby barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel, Batangas to immediately evacuate as advised by Phivolcs (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology). Communities around Taal Lake are also advised to take precautionary measures and to be vigilant in case the situation escalates," the health department said in a statement Sunday evening.
"Adverse health effects from a volcanic eruption can be avoided if warnings are diligently heeded," it added.
Some of the conditions that may be experienced due to exposure to volcanic ash include nose and throat irritation, coughing, bronchitis-like illness, discomfort while breathing, eye irritation, and minor skin problems.
“If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
Duque also advised the public to stay indoors as much as possible or minimize outdoor activities.
"If venturing outside cannot be avoided, use an N95 mask and wear protective clothing including goggles," said Duque.
“I also advise everyone to turn off the air conditioning and fans, close windows and doors to keep ash and gases from getting inside the house, and to remain alert and prepared to evacuate if advised," he added.
"For those evacuating, exercise caution when driving in low visibility, and bring extra water for cleaning your front mirrors in case of heavy ash fall,” he furthered.
Read more: Taal alert level 4 up after phreatic eruption
Department of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III (CZAR DANCEL / MANILA BULLETIN)
The DOH reminded the public to remain vigilant and follow the advisories of authorities.
"The DOH urges residents of Taal Volcano Island and nearby barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel, Batangas to immediately evacuate as advised by Phivolcs (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology). Communities around Taal Lake are also advised to take precautionary measures and to be vigilant in case the situation escalates," the health department said in a statement Sunday evening.
"Adverse health effects from a volcanic eruption can be avoided if warnings are diligently heeded," it added.
Some of the conditions that may be experienced due to exposure to volcanic ash include nose and throat irritation, coughing, bronchitis-like illness, discomfort while breathing, eye irritation, and minor skin problems.
“If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
Duque also advised the public to stay indoors as much as possible or minimize outdoor activities.
"If venturing outside cannot be avoided, use an N95 mask and wear protective clothing including goggles," said Duque.
“I also advise everyone to turn off the air conditioning and fans, close windows and doors to keep ash and gases from getting inside the house, and to remain alert and prepared to evacuate if advised," he added.
"For those evacuating, exercise caution when driving in low visibility, and bring extra water for cleaning your front mirrors in case of heavy ash fall,” he furthered.
Read more: Taal alert level 4 up after phreatic eruption