By JEN BAYLON
The Department of Health (DOH) has reinforced health measures against intense heat at evacuation centers three months after the Kanlaon Volcano eruption.
Adrian Hort Ramos, development management officer of the DOH in Bacolod City, said primary health activities are being carried out in the evacuation facilities.
“These include medical consultations, health surveillance and activities aligned with addressing the increasing heat index,” Ramos said.
“Our activities to ensure the health of evacuees are continuously monitored by our deployed personnel alongside local government unit [LGU] personnel,” he added.
The DOH encouraged internally displaced persons, especially those staying in classrooms, to open their windows for proper ventilation to prevent excessive heat inside their rooms.
“We encourage increased fluid intake due to the extreme heat and recommend protection from direct sunlight as much as possible,” Ramos said.
The DOH is addressing heat-related health concerns inside evacuation centers, particularly among the elderly population.
DOH-Negros Island Region director Dr. Nikka Hao said that, while some cases have been identified, there are currently no severe incidents.
“They have been seen by our deployed workers at the evacuation site and referred to hospitals for appropriate workup. No severe cases for now,” Hao said.
In response to rising temperatures, camp managers have been instructed to enhance ventilation by opening windows and utilizing electric fans.
“In La Castellana, some families in temporary tents have been relocated to shaded areas with more trees,” she noted.
Hao also reassured that there are currently no reported issues with water supply or shortages, but teams remain vigilant to monitor potential health concern, including food and waterborne diseases and dengue fever.
The evacuees are advised to seek medical attention at the nearest health facility if experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, dehydration, heat rashes, heat edema, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.
The eruption of Kanlaon on December 9, 2024 displaced approximately 87,000 residents, with over 8,000 individuals still residing in evacuation centers.
Many are housed in schools that are not designed for prolonged stays, making health and safety measures critical.
The DOH continues to collaborate with LGUs to provide essential health services and ensure the well-being of evacuees./JB, WDJ