DOH places hospitals near Kanlaon on Code White Alert
Health advisories issued to affected individuals, communities
The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday, June 4, said that hospitals near Kanlaon Volcano have been placed on a “Code White” alert.
"Since yesterday, the DOH Western Visayas Center for Health Development (CHD) has been sending facemasks, safety goggles, hygiene kits, jerry water cans, and disaster relief tents to affected areas near Kanlaon Volcano,” said Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa in a statement.
“Nearby hospitals have also been placed on Code White,” he added.
A Code White Alert, declared during major national events or holidays, indicates preparedness for potential mass casualty incidents.
During this alert status, designated medical personnel and staff are on standby, ready to promptly attend to incoming patients at hospitals.
Health advice
Following Kanlaon’s eruption on June 3, DOH reminded the affected communities to take the necessary precautions.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2024/6/3/kanlaon-volcano-erupts-alert-level-2-raised
“Mag-ingat po tayo, at makinig sa abiso ng ating local government officials (Let us be careful and listen to the advisories of our local government officials),” Herbosa said.
In its health advisory, DOH urged everyone nearby or affected by Kanlaon Volcano activity to always follow the advice of their local government units. “Evacuate when asked to do so,” the agency.
Affected individuals were enjoined to protect their lungs from ashfall and any noxious gases.
“Close doors and windows; use wet curtains or clothes to cover any gaps where ash and gases could enter,” DOH said. “Wear face masks properly, or use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth,” it added.
For those with asthma or Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), DOH asked them to ensure adequate supplies of their inhaler medicines and use them as directed by the doctor.
“Consult a doctor or health center immediately for any difficulty breathing,” DOH said.
Moreover, DOH said affected individuals need to protect their eyes from ashes and dust.
“Wear safety goggles if available. Do not use contact lenses; switch to glasses for now. Do not rub your eyes; if irritated, rinse them with clean lukewarm running water. Consult a doctor or health center immediately for any persistent eye problems,” DOH said.
DOH also urged all affected to ensure that their food is safe.
“Wash hands properly and thoroughly before cooking and eating. Clean fruit and vegetables with running water,” DOH said.
The public was also urged to check the expiration date of canned goods and stored food; cover water containers properly to avoid contamination and; “consult a doctor or health center immediately for any stomach aches or bowel movement problems.”
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https://mb.com.ph/2024/6/3/doh-issues-public-advisory-on-protection-from-ashfall