The Department of Health (DOH) has instructed camp managers to ensure proper ventilation for residents displaced by Kanlaon Volcano’s unrest who remain in evacuation centers in Negros Island as heat levels rise.
“We have instructed camp managers to check on ventilation — like opening windows and putting in electric fans. In La Castellana, some families in temporary tents have been relocated to shaded areas with more trees,” Dr. Nikka Hao, regional director of the DOH Negros Island Region, said Wednesday, March 12.
She said they currently have two heat related cases involving elderly persons suffering from headaches/dizziness. “They were seen by deployed health personnel in evacuation centers and referred to hospitals for workup. They are stable and not severe cases,” Hao said..
Hao also said they have no reported issues on water supply or water shortage. “But our teams are on alert to monitor possible health impact if these happen – like food and water borne diseases, dengue,” she said.
She said the public should avoid being exposed to extreme heat.
They should stay indoors or in shaded areas as much as possible between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and use umbrellas, hats and protective clothing if they go out, Hao said.
They should drink plenty of clean and potable water and wear lightweight and loose clothing, she added.
Ventilation can be improved by opening windows and using fans, Hao said.
Those suffering from the heat should apply wet towels on their foreheads, necks, heads, armpits, groins or take showers, she added.
Those experiencing dizziness, dehydration, heat rashes, heat edema, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke should go to the nearest health facility, she said.
Children and elderly who are the most vulnerable should be closely monitored, Hao said.
There are 8.403 displaced residents in 22 evacuation centers in Negros Island and 11,579 staying outside evacuation centers, the Department of Social Welfare and Development reported.*