The Department of Health in the Negros Island Region on Friday, Dec. 13, raised its status from Code White to Code Blue following the declaration of a state of calamity in Negros Occidental due to the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano.
“It is intended to supplement the province’s request for more aid for the individuals and families impacted by the recent natural disaster,” Dr. Razel Nikka Hao, Negros Island Region Department of Health Regional Director, said in a press statement.
Code Blue would indicate the immediate deployment of health teams, experts, and additional units during an emergency response, she said.
This is often raised to increase coordination with the existing dispatched team with other agencies and would also be giving a go-ahead signal for planning and support in affected municipalities during a long-term emergency and activates the DOH NIR Center for Health Development’s Incident Command System, she said.
“There is still an active threat with Mt. Kanlaon, the situation remains dangerous due to continuous volcanic activity. We urge the public to follow evacuation orders and safety instructions from your Local Government Unit”, she said.
Hao also advised the public to continue to protect themselves from ash fall by staying indoors, wearing masks, and sealing windows and doors to prevent ash from entering their homes.
The public were also told to use only clean, safe water for drinking and cooking. Boil or disinfect water if its safety is uncertain, she added.
At evacuation centers, evacuees are also advised to maintain proper hygiene, wash hands regularly, and report any signs of illness to health personnel immediately, Hao said.*