Facade of the Department of Health office in Manila. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

ILOILO CITY – The Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) 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 here Thursday.

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

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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.

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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 1 to 10 years.

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

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“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.

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READ: DOH reminds Filipinos to spend Christmas season healthily

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

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The DOH WV CHD continues to advocate for safety and health practices to ensure a festive yet safe holiday season for all.

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