The Department of Health (DoH) has recorded 46 cases of bronchial asthma and acute exacerbation nationwide, with the number expected to rise as New Year celebrations commence.

While the current tally remains low, the DoH is bracing for an influx of patients with respiratory issues as some communities begin their festivities with fireworks displays.

“There are people who have hyperreactive airways. They may not be diagnosed with asthma, but they can easily get coughs or irritations,” said DoH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo in a radio interview.

The agency advises at-risk individuals to wear N95 or surgical masks, or cover their nose and mouth with wet towels during fireworks displays to minimize smoke exposure.

“If you have family members with asthma or an elderly, don’t open the room where the patient is,” Domingo said.

Separately, the DoH reported 142 firecracker-related injuries nationwide as of Sunday.

The Health department has consistently urged the public to prioritize safety and refrain from using personal fireworks, encouraging them to instead enjoy professionally organized community fireworks displays.