DOH continues medical aid to typhoon-hit Ilocos residents

The Department of Health (DOH) continues to provide medical services to residents affected by Tropical Cyclones "Crising," "Dante," "Emong," and the southwest monsoon (habagat).

“Augmentation of logistics to provinces has been made, and medical teams are already in place to provide the necessary health assessments to residents in evacuation centers, including mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) and psychological first aid to lessen their stress and emotional burden,” DOH Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco said.

"It is important that we take care of not only their physical well-being but also their mental and emotional well-being so that they are safe before returning to their homes," Sydiongco added.

A Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis was immediately conducted to enable efficient allocation of resources and targeted assistance to affected populations.

Aside from medical consultations, nutrition assessments for infants and children were also conducted. Jerry cans, hygiene and oral health kits, nutriboxes, and doxycycline were distributed to every family in evacuation centers to ensure the supply of clean and safe water.

Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services were also provided to prevent the spread of diseases in evacuation centers.

“For now, we are implementing code white alert in all health facilities for immediate mobilization should there be another typhoon that will enter the region,” Sydiongco continued.

“The Health Emergency Management Staff operations center is on a 24-hour duty to monitor any health-related events,” Sydiongco assured.

Due to the continuing inclement weather and incessant rains, the public is advised to take necessary precautions, stay indoors if possible, and avoid wading in floodwaters to prevent potential health hazards like leptospirosis, she added.

As of 26 July, a total of eight injured and five deaths were reported in the region, mostly from drowning incidents.