By GISELLE OMBAY, GMA Integrated News
The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday activated a Code White Alert for the entire Holy Week as part of its preparations for any health-related incidents that may arise during the exodus of Filipinos to provinces, churches, and tourist destinations.
The Health Department said that Code White Alert will be in effect starting April 13, Palm Sunday, until April 20, Easter Sunday.
The DOH usually declares a Code White Alert during national events, holidays, or celebrations that can potentially cause mass casualty incidents or emergencies to ensure the readiness of health facilities and personnel.
Under this alert status, all medical personnel, especially those in emergency rooms and critical care units, are prepared for a potential increase in patient volume due to accidents, injuries, or other health-related incidents that may happen.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa urged the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy observance of Holy Week.
“Maging alerto po tayo sa mga kalsada ngayong karamihan ay magbibiyahe. At dahil din po sa matinding init, mag-iingat din po tayo sa epekto nito sa katawan. Maiiwasan ang heat stroke kung hindi masyado magbababad sa init at kung laging umiinom ng tubig,” Herbosa said in a statement.
(Let’s be alert while on the road, especially that many people will be traveling. Let’s also be careful of the effect of the intense heat on our bodies. Heat stroke can be avoided if we don’t stay under the sun for too long and if we always drink water.)
“We encourage everyone to observe the Holy Week responsibly. Magpunta po sa mga DOH hospitals na tuloy-tuloy na naka-antabay at magbibigay ng healthcare services sa mangangailangan nito ngayong darating na Semana Santa,” he added.
(If necessary, go to the DOH hospitals that are continuously on standby and will provide healthcare services to patients this coming Holy Week.) —RF, GMA Integrated News
Margarett Buresh
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