FORTY six cases of bronchial asthma and acute exacerbation have been reported to the Department of Health (DOH) nationwide thus far, and this number could rise as the country celebrates the New Year.
According to television reports, the DOH stated that although the present number is still low, they are already getting ready for the surge of patients with these lung problems when some regions begin to celebrate the New Year with fireworks.
Some people’s airways are hyperreactive. Although they might not have an asthma diagnosis, they are susceptible to coughing or irritations, according to DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo.
In order to prevent smoke exposure during fireworks displays, the agency encouraged individuals who were at risk to wear surgical masks or N95 masks, or to cover their mouth and nose with damp towels.
“Don’t open the room where the patient is if you have elderly family members or family members with asthma,” Domingo continued.
In addition to these illnesses, the DOH said on Sunday that, in the run-up to the New Year 2025 festivities, 142 firecracker-related injuries had been reported nationwide.
Throughout the holiday season, the DOH has cautioned the public about the risks of using firecrackers and has advised them to watch professionally set-up community fireworks displays instead.
