Two children get severed fingers as DOH reports 57 firecracker-related injuries
Two boys buy sparklers from a fireworks store in Sto. Cristo, Binondo, Manila. The Department of Health said a total of 32 fireworks-related injuries have been recorded four days ahead New Year’s eve revelry. (PHOTOGRAPH BY JOEY SANCHEZ MENDOZA FOR THE DAILY)
Cases of firecracker-related injuries have increased to 57, including two cases involving children who severed their fingers, according to the Department of Health (DOH) report from 21 December to 4:00 a.m. on 25 December.
An 8-year-old child lost his index finger and thumb when he was hit by a whistle bomb, while a 16-year-old lost two fingers when he was hit by a 5-star.
Kwitis was added to the list of firecrackers that cause the most injuries to victims, alongside “5-star,” “boga,” and “triangle.”
Among the numbers, 64 percent of the victims are aged 19 years old and younger, while 36 percent are 20 years old and older.
The health agency reminded the public to avoid using firecrackers, whether legal or illegal, and advised that victims of firecracker-related accidents should be brought immediately to hospitals for medical treatment.
The DOH also urged the public to contact the National Emergency Hotline 911 for emergency medical assistance.