By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) clarified that it does not provide free medical insurance, following the circulation of online posts claiming otherwise.
“The Department of Health (DOH) warns the public against a circulating malicious social media post claiming to offer free medical insurance,” it stated in a release on Thursday (April 18, 2024).
The DOH cautioned the public against posts misusing the agency’s name.
“The said page is FAKE, as are any affiliate links and/or posts,” stressed the DOH.
The agency further warned that criminal charges may be pursued if related posts persist.
The health department urged the public to obtain information only from legitimate sources and platforms.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Adhering to the age-old dictum that “prevention is better than cure,” some three million vaccine doses against the highly contagious pertussis infection are arriving in the country soon.
This was disclosed by the Department of Health (DOH) as some areas in Metro Manila as well as in Iloilo City are seeing a rise in pertussis cases, with 453 cases of pertussis recorded in the first 10 weeks of the year and 35 persons so far have succumbed to the virus.
On Monday (25 March 2024), the DOH said that the country is already distributing some 64,400 pentavalent shots to children to fight the resurgence of pertussis, which is spread through respiratory droplets and could be life-threatening.
It was learned that the incoming vaccines, called pentavalent shots, also protect against other vaccine-preventable illnesses such as diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis B, and Hemophilus influenza type B.
Dr. Tony Leachon, a former government health adviser, has urged individuals in areas with high pertussis cases to wear face masks to stamp out the transmission.
DOH guidelines also suggest voluntary use of face coverings but it is “highly encouraged.”
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health is aiming to restore immunization coverage to at least 90 percent, as stated by Health Undersecretary and spokesperson Dr. Eric Tayag.
Tayag highlighted the period when immunization coverage in the Philippines soared during the campaign to eradicate polio under the “Oplan Alis Disease” initiative.
“Tayag emphasized the commendable achievement of the Philippines, maintaining vaccine coverage of no less than 90 percent, particularly during the inception of the polio elimination efforts in our country,” he said, referring to the DOH’s previous campaign.
“This is the primary goal of Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, to revive the vigor of vaccination efforts in our nation, reminiscent of the days under former Secretary Juan Flavier,” he added.
The DOH official mentioned their ongoing collaboration with the Philippine Pediatric Society and other private organizations. They reported a 10 to 20 percent increase in their immunization campaign, pushing the nation’s coverage to between 60 and 70 percent.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Considered as man’s best friend but being bitten by a dog with rabies can be fatal as 84 persons have died as of March this year.
This warning was aired on Saturday (23 March 2024) by Department of Health (DOH) spokesperson Dr. Eric Tayag as he reminded the public to take extra precaution against prevalent health issues during summer.
“Nasa 84 na ang namatay sa rabies this year, compared sa same period na 82,” Tayag told reporters during the Saturday News Forum at Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City.
The DOH mouthpiece said being bitten by dogs possibly infected with rabies is among the most common health issues during summer aside from sunburn, sore eyes, cough and colds, gastrointestinal issues, and skin diseases.
“Ang rabies ay gumagapang ng one inch per day hanggang sa makapunta sa utak. Basta malapit sa utak [yung kagat], mabilis gumapang yung virus,” he explained.
Tayag added: “After months or years, magkakaroon kayo ng hydrophobia, natatakot kayo sa tubig… Nakakakilala kayo tapos mamaya hindi niyo na nakikilala… Minsan kailangan namin kayo itali kasi nagiging violent.”
He advised those who may have been bitten or scratched by infected animals should immediately clean their wounds, and go straight to a hospital to get an anti-rabies vaccine.
“Hugasan agad ng tubig at sabon dahil ‘yung laway ng asong ulol, nandoon ‘yung rabies so pag hinugasan ninyo ‘yan, marami nang natanggal doon pero pumunta pa rin kayo sa rabies center,” the DOH official said.
Tayag also reminded pet owners to have their dogs and cats vaccinated against the virus.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has documented a total of 107 cases of injuries related to firecrackers, with an additional 11 reported on Saturday (30 Dec 2023).
Out of the 11 cases, six involved the use of illegal firecrackers, as stated by the DOH.
The department revealed that among the 11 cases, a 72-year-old man was included.
“No one is spared from the harm caused by fireworks: young or old, male or female, actively participating or merely bystanders. We report a new case today of a 72-year-old male from NCR who sustained burns and abrasions due to a skyrocket (Kwitis) ignited by someone else on the street,” the DOH stated.
The agency emphasized that it is advisable to attend community fireworks displays to reduce the risk of injuries from firecrackers.
“The data is clear: injuries related to fireworks often occur at home or in its vicinity, typically involving young males, but also affecting passive observers of any age or gender,” it added.
“It is still best to watch community fireworks displays from a safe distance. The role of parents and community leaders is crucial.”
(IAmigo/MNM)
MANILA — In a concerning update on Thursday (28 Dec 2023), the Department of Health (DOH) disclosed the first case of watusi ingestion this holiday season, contributing to a total of 88 injuries related to fireworks just four days before the New Year celebrations.
The victim, a 4-year-old boy from Calabarzon, accidentally swallowed a watusi at home, as reported by the DOH on the seventh day of monitoring fireworks-related injuries.
The family of the child is currently unreachable, prompting the DOH to issue an appeal for them to return to the hospital for proper medical attention.
According to the DOH, the signs and symptoms of watusi poisoning may not be immediate, potentially manifesting in the next few hours and persisting for days, with a significant risk of death.
Watusi, when ingested, poses a deadly threat due to its composition of yellow phosphorous, potassium chlorate, potassium nitrate, and TNT (trinitrotoluene), an explosive.
Children often mistake the small, brightly colored firework for candy, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate medical attention if ingestion occurs.
DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo advised against inducing vomiting but suggested giving the patient egg white, which wraps around the yellow phosphorous, facilitating its removal in the hospital.
Beyond ingestion, watusi can also pose risks to the eyes. The DOH recommends immediate washing of the eye with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seeking medical assistance with open eyelids.
Out of the 88 reported injuries nationwide, approximately 30 percent originated from Metro Manila. Regions with the highest cases include Central Luzon, Ilocos Region, Bicol Region, Davao Region, and Soccsksargen. Most injuries involved males who actively engaged with firecrackers, particularly illegal or highly explosive ones, with some cases resulting in severe damage, including amputations, regardless of their legal status. The DOH emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and caution during the New Year festivities.
(Liezelle Soriano/IAmigo/MNM)
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH)-Ilocos Region has recorded a concerning uptick in fireworks-related injury (FWRI) cases, reaching 25 from December 21-27, 2023, with children predominantly affected.
According to the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) report, this marks a 79% increase compared to the same period last year when only 14 FWRI cases were reported.
Assistant Regional Director Rodolfo M. Albornoz strongly urges parents to vigilantly supervise their children to prevent firecracker-related injuries or fatalities.
“A significant number of firecracker victims this year are children, so let’s watch our kids closely and refrain from allowing them to ignite any type of fireworks. They should also be prohibited from picking up fireworks, as these may explode in their hands,” Abornoz said.
The age range of cases varied from 7-74 years, with 10-14 year-olds accounting for 9 FWRI cases, 5 cases among 5-9 year-olds, and others distributed across different age groups. Males constitute 80% of the injuries.
Out of the 25 cases, 16 were passive, involving observers and bystanders, while 9 were active participants directly in contact with the firecrackers.
Among the injuries, 21 (84%) suffered blast/burn injuries without amputation, 3 (12%) had blast/burn injuries with amputation, and 1 (4%) experienced eye injuries.
Pangasinan recorded the highest number of FWRI cases at 80%, with Dagupan City contributing 16 cases. La Union reported 4 (6%) cases, and Ilocos Sur documented 1 (4%) FWRI cases.
Albornoz emphasized that 17 injuries were caused by unlabeled imported firecrackers, including 3 cases of boga, 2 from kwitis, and one each from “one star,” “piccolo,” and “bawang.”
“Whether legal or illegal, all of these fireworks can cause serious injuries, especially to children who are most affected during this holiday season, being frequently outdoors and engaged in play,” he added.
In conclusion, Albornoz urged, “It’s better not to buy or ignite any fireworks. Our safety is more crucial than celebrating the New Year with potential accidents.”
DOH-Region 1 also calls for the collaboration of all local government units and the Philippine National Police to regulate and control the sale and use of fireworks and firecrackers, particularly among minors.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) recorded five cases of amputations on Tuesday (December 26, 2023) resulting from fireworks, a scant five (5) days before the New Year’s Day celebration.
According to the DOH, three minors and two adults, all male, were involved, experiencing the loss or mangling of fingers and hands.
The firecrackers implicated in these incidents included the illegal Boga, Plapla, Five-star, and Goodbye Philippines fireworks, as well as the legal whistle bomb.
“Say goodbye to fireworks use at home instead of saying goodbye to your fingers,” emphasized the DOH.
In its latest update, the DOH documented 24 new cases of firecracker-related injuries, bringing the total count to 52 cases. The agency acknowledged the efforts of the Philippine National Police (PNP), particularly their crackdown on prohibited firecrackers and the indiscriminate use of firearms.
“Thank you for helping the Department save lives and limbs,” the DOH added.
(IAmigo/MNM)
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) has reported 16 new cases of injuries related to fireworks, bringing the total to 28 cases just six days before the New Year festivities.
As of 6 a.m. on Monday, DOH data revealed that among the new cases was an eye injury suffered by a passive onlooker at a designated area. The age range of those affected spans from 6 to 35 years, with only one female among them.
Approximately 94 percent of incidents occurred either at home or on the streets, with 31 percent concentrated in the National Capital Region, according to the DOH.
Out of the reported incidents, seven cases, or 44 percent, involved legal firecrackers.
The current overall count is 28 cases, with 10 of them classified as passive involvement. The use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices is regulated by Republic Act 7183 and Executive Order 28, issued in 2017.
The DOH emphasized that fireworks, whether used at home or in designated areas, pose risks even to those not directly involved in lighting them. It is recommended that professionals handle community fireworks displays, ensuring spectators are at a safe distance.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag has recommended that the public wear face masks at parties and crowded places in light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases this holiday season.
“If you’re not sure, wear a mask. You can take it off when eating. It’s preferable to choose open spaces for better ventilation,” advised Tayag.
“And of course, if we develop symptoms after the party, let’s get tested to determine the illness we may have contracted,” he added.
Earlier, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa reassured the public, stating that the “minimal” rise in COVID-19 cases should not be a cause for concern.
Meanwhile, Tayag also urged the public to limit the consumption of sweet and salty foods.
“Before starting a buffet, choose three items you’d like to eat. When placing them on your plate, be mindful of portions,” suggested Tayag.
“Avoid foods that are ‘Ma’ — sweet, salty, or oily,” emphasized the health official.
(IAmigo/MNM)
By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has advised the public to exercise caution in their food choices during the Christmas season, emphasizing the persistent threat of heart disease as the leading cause of death among Filipinos.
Expressing concern about lifestyle-related illnesses, Herbosa emphasized the restriction of ‘ma’ foods—those that are fatty (mataba), salty (maalat), and sweet (matamis). He highlighted the nutritional value of salads and fruits, emphasizing the importance of moderation in consumption.
While acknowledging the restrictions, Herbosa also encouraged individuals to indulge sensibly, stating, “It’s permissible to taste. Once you’ve experienced it, that’s enough. You’ve already sampled the food that was served. It’s wonderful to celebrate, but I don’t want Filipinos celebrating in the emergency rooms of hospitals.”
Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Herbosa pointed out that ischemic heart disease accounted for 121,558 cases or 18.3 percent of all deaths in the nation from January to December 2022, solidifying its status as the leading cause of death.
(IA/MNM)
HIV Screening of vulnerable populations during the World AIDS Day Celebration in Bantay Ilocos Sur on November 29, 2023
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH)-Ilocos Region has reported 296 new cases of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) from January 1 to July 30, 2023, underlining the region’s commitment to raising awareness and eliminating the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS.
The focus is on empowering communities to actively participate in all aspects of HIV plans and programs.
Assistant Regional Director Antonio M. Albornoz, a key figure in the World AIDS Day celebration in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, on November 29, 2023, emphasized the crucial role of community leadership in achieving the goal of eliminating AIDS by 2030.
He stressed the importance of community involvement in planning, policy-making, funding, and monitoring activities to reduce stigma and strengthen psychosocial support for patients.
Albornoz stated, “It is essential for everyone to be involved and collaborate in the fight against HIV to create sustainable and efficient programs based on the needs of the community.”
The Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) reported 45 new HIV cases in July 2023, with Pangasinan having the highest number at 28, followed by Ilocos Sur with 6, Ilocos Norte and La Union with 4 cases each, and Dagupan City with 3.
Since 1984, the region has recorded 3,051 individuals diagnosed with HIV.
Infectious Disease Cluster Head Rheuel C. Bobis highlighted a 70% decrease in HIV-related mortality but stressed the need to continue efforts for an HIV-free future through collective commitment and comprehensive community involvement. He emphasized creating an environment where every individual with HIV/AIDS is supported and allowed to thrive.
The World AIDS Day Celebration in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, featured various activities, including HIV screening, an AVP contest for Best in World AIDS Day, Sayaw Galaw Contest Laban Sa HIV/AIDS, the search for the Bantay HIV Ambassador/Ambassadress 2023, and Paskuhan sa Bantay.
Winners were awarded cash prizes ranging from P1,000 to P10,000.
(ai/mnm)
By Liza Soriano
Dr. Ted Herbosa did not show up during the Senate hearing on the Department of Health (DOH) proposed budget for 2024 on Thursday.
Earlier, the Commission on Appointment (CA) bypassed the appointment of Herbosa as the Health Secretary.
Senator Francis Tolentino questioned the absence of Herbosa.
“Administratively, who is in charge? Who will take the cudgels in defending the budget of this big department? We don’t have a secretary here,” Tolentino asked.
“Who is going to present? Is there an acting secretary? Is there an officer-in-charge who will be responsible for all these budget presentations, madam Chair? Otherwise, we’re talking to a clustered group of individuals,” he added.
Herbosa’s name was written on the guest list for the budget briefing.
Meanwhile, Committee senior vice-chair Sen. Pia Cayetano said that there are senior members of the agency who are present during the hearing.
“Actually all of the senior members of the team approached me a while ago and they acknowledged that of course, it is a bit of an awkward situation,” Cayetano said.
“But as you all know, Usec Dr. Vergeire was the OIC for many years and was very actively exercising her leadership not just in the past year, but even during the time of President Duterte. Usec. Dr. David is the most senior undersecretary. So I’m quite confident in the presentation today that they can answer,” she added.
Secretary Herbosa could not be reached for comment as of posting time Thursday. (ai/mnm)
DOH-Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco underlines the advantages and importance of taking generic medicines to Barangay Health Workers of Ilocos Sur during the celebration of “Generics Awareness Month” held at the Provincial Farmers Livelihood Development Center on September 21, 2023 in Vigan City.
A RANKING Department of Health official has called on the public to use generic drugs as they are less expensive yet, similarly effective.
The call was made by DOH-Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco in her speech during the opening ceremony of the two-day “Generics Awareness Month Celebration” at the Provincial Farmers Livelihood Development Center on September 22, 2023, in Vigan City.
The event was participated by Barangay Health Workers Federation presidents and members of the Drugstore Store Association of the Philippines (DSAP)–Ilocos Sur in Ilocos Sur.
“Ang generic medicines ay mas mura kaysa sa mga branded na gamot at pareho lang sila ng kalidad at bisa. Mas makakatipid kayo sa inyong mga gamot kung ito ang inyong gagamitin. I have been using generic medicine for years now at ako na ang nagsasabi na it is safe, reliable and effective as the branded and expensive ones.”
“Although hindi lahat ng branded na gamot ay may katumbas na generic medicine, dahil ang mga iba ay patent-protected at ito ay mabibili lamang sa mga kompanyang naka-imbento nito and it usually becomes available only after the patent expires gaya ng mga bagong tuklas na mga gamot ngayon laban sa mga bagong sakit,” Sydiongco emphasized.
She also reminded the public to buy generic medicines from FDA-registered drugstores only.
Assistant Regional Director Rodolfo Antonio M. Albornoz also advised BHWs and DSAP members to support the government’s efforts in promoting the use of generic medicines.
“Sa ating mga BHWs, continue to encourage residents in your barangays na bumili at gumamit ng generic drugs para sa kanilang maintenance or para sa treatment ng kanilang mga karamdaman. Sa mga drugstore owners naman, ipagpatuloy ninyo ang pabibigay ng mga dekalidad, ligtas at epektibong generic drugs upang patuloy na matulungan ang ating mga kababayan,” Albornoz added.
The Generic Awareness Month is celebrated to commemorate the 35th year of the passing of the Generics Act of 1988 also known as Republic Act 6675, which promotes the manufacturing of adequate, affordable, and effective generic drugs for Filipinos.
This year’s theme, “Kalusugan ay Palakasin, Generics Ating Tangkilikin,” calls for the public to consider the use of generic medicines in the treatment of ailments as it is safe and have the same efficacy as branded medicines.
Regional Pharmacist, Farida D. Espina, said generic drugs are cheaper because manufacturers do not use unnecessary advertising and promotion including expensive packaging for marketing. “Kaya malayo po na mas mura ang kanilang presyo dahil dito.”
“Pero sa kalidad at bisa ay pareho lang sila and most important is that generic drugs and medicines have passed through the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) safety standards at ang mga ito ay mayroong Certificate of Product Registration kaya ito ay ligtas at mabisang gamiting gamot,” Farida added.
FDA permits and certifications must be posted by drugstores in a particular place where they can be readily and easily seen by the public.
If in doubt of the drugstore’s certificate and License to Operate, consumers can verify their permits online through the http://bit.ly/FDAVerificationPortal.
The DOH regional office also assured the public that the generic drugs that they provide to the public are safe. (ai/mnm)
Image Courtesy of: House of Representative
HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday called upon the Department of Health (DoH) and local government units (LGUs) to provide assistance to individuals affected by the volcanic smog, known as vog, originating from Taal Volcano.
He emphasized the importance of helping residents in areas surrounding Taal Volcano, such as Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, and even Metro Manila, in dealing with this temporary issue.
Speaker Romualdez urged the DoH and LGUs to distribute N95 face masks and other protective gear to those affected.
He mentioned that Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo informed him that the DoH still has an ample supply of N95 face masks acquired during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In order to shield affected residents from volcanic dust and harmful gases, Speaker Romualdez made this request to the DoH through Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, who chairs the House Committee on Appropriations.
He suggested that if face masks are currently unavailable, residents could consider using makeshift face coverings such as cloth.
The leader of the 311-member House of Representatives also called upon the DoH and LGUs to be prepared for potential respiratory issues that may arise due to volcanic smog in the affected regions. He recommended prepositioning drugs for respiratory ailments in areas where they might be needed.
Reports on Thursday indicated that haze from Taal Volcano’s emissions had spread over Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Metro Manila, leading to the suspension of classes.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and the air monitoring office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) later clarified that the observed smog originated from vehicle emissions rather than from Taal Volcano. Phivolcs noted that Taal’s emissions were drifting west-westward, away from Metro Manila.