(FILE) 184 families were evacuated to Bagong Silangan Evacuation Center in Quezon City on Sunday to prevent casualties caused by the overflowing Marikina River after Typhoon "Pepito" hit Metro Manila.
Photo by Aram Lascano for DAILY TRIBUNE
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The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Tuesday that it has prepositioned P31 million worth of emergency medicines and supplies to protect Filipinos from illnesses linked to flooding and heavy rains.
In a press briefing, DOH Spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said that affected local government units (LGUs) have begun using the supplies already in their custody.
Areas that have benefitted include Cagayan Valley, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Northern Mindanao.
In addition, the DOH has placed P180 million worth of standby medical supplies, which include antibiotics, fever and pain relievers, oral rehydration salts, and herbal remedies like lagundi.
To ensure access to clean water and hygiene, the agency has also distributed hygiene kits, water containers, chlorine tablets, and breastfeeding kits for mothers.
Domingo said medical teams and local health workers are rotating through evacuation centers to administer medicines, monitor health conditions, and prevent potential disease outbreaks.
He also urged the public to seek medical consultation immediately after exposure to floodwaters—even without symptoms.
“Even if we don't feel any symptoms yet, as long as floodwater touches our skin, let’s consult our doctors. Medicine is available for free at government health centers,” Domingo said.
The DOH further reminded the public to boil drinking water for at least two minutes, avoid floodwater exposure, and wash thoroughly after contact.
Residents are also advised to watch for early signs of leptospirosis, such as fever, muscle pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has been visiting evacuation centers across Metro Manila and other affected areas to monitor the health situation firsthand.
