The Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH-WVCHD) is urging the public to prioritize health and safety this holiday season through its Ligtas Christmas 2024 campaign.

“The DOH reminds the community to remain vigilant about potential health hazards while enjoying the festivities. Ligtas Christmas aims to educate and empower the public to prioritize well-being during this joyous time,” said Dr. Ma. Femie P. Japitana, Medical Coordinator for the Food and Waterborne Diseases Program, during a press conference in Iloilo on Thursday, December 19.

The campaign promotes a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, exercise and discipline.

It also emphasizes road safety and encourages safer alternatives to fireworks, such as organized displays and noisemakers like “torotot” (blow horns), drums, and light sticks.

Iloilo City Health Office Nurse II Dariane Joy Papa presented data showing 294 firecracker-related injuries in Western Visayas last year, with 33 percent involving children aged one to 10 years.

Most injuries occurred from December 31 to January 1, with blast or burn injuries without amputation and eye injuries being the most common. The leading causes included kwitis (rockets), luces (sparklers) and improvised firecrackers.

“Children are often injured collecting unexploded firecrackers. We remind the public not to touch them,” Papa said.

Japitana also emphasized safe food preparation, especially for perishable dishes like spaghetti and pasta, which can cause food poisoning if not properly stored.

“Food should be left out for no more than two hours and refrigerated at below five degrees Celsius,” she said.

The DOH-WVCHD continues to advocate for safety and health practices to ensure a festive yet safe holiday season for all. (PNA)