• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Department of Health-Negros Island Region has placed the whole NIR under Code White alert, from today until May 15, in line with the midterm elections on Monday.
DOH-NIR director, Dr. Razel Nikka Hao, in an advisory May 8, said the alert is in “anticipation of the increased movement of people and heightened risk of medical emergencies during the midterm elections”.
This means that public and private hospitals should ensure a 24/7 availability of emergency room personnel, ambulance teams, and essential medical services; of resources to manage cases particularly on trauma, heat-related illness, and mass gatherings;
Preposition essential supplies, including IV fluids, ORS (oral rehydration solution), first-aid kits, and blood units; maintain an active Hospital Incident Command System and report all major incidents within one hour; and provide a fast lane in the emergency department to cater to patients with event-related injuries.
Rural health units and local health facilities, meanwhile, should deploy on-call medical teams during gatherings and public activities; offer first-aid and health advisory stations in strategic locations; and prepare to manage common conditions, like dehydration, heat exhaustion, hyperventilation, minor injuries, and hypertension.
Residents, on the other hand, should remain vigilant against the rising temperature by staying indoors or in shaded areas during peak heat hours, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; hydrate regularly but avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks; wear light, breathable clothing and use umbrellas or wide-brimmed hats when outdoors; and watch out for signs of heat-related illness, like dizziness, nausea, cramps, fainting, and confusion.
For the vulnerable sector, like the elderly, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters, the Commission on Elections has urged them to avail of the early voting hours on May 12, from 5 to 7 a.m.
Hao also said that the DOH NIR CHD Regional Emergency Operations Center (REOC) shall be on-call 24/7 during the alert period. The REOC is tasked to receive and consolidate daily reports from the Negros and Siquijor provinces, hospitals, and RHUs; monitor alerts from partner agencies; and provide technical assistance and mobilization of resources as needed, among others. | CGC
