Fireworks can lead to hearing loss — DOH

FIREWORK explosions result in sound levels of 140-150 decibels (dB), which can lead to pain and ear injury after exposure. For comparison, the sound of a normal conversation is around 60 dB; the sound of a motorcycle is 95 dB; sirens are at 120 dB. Loud noises above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to ears.

FWRI Report #8 (6:00 AM of Dec 28 to 5:59 AM of Dec 29) revealed eight  new cases, ranging from 5 to 49 years old (median age: 18), mostly males (7, 88%). All of these new cases occurred at home and in the streets. Six (6, 75%) were due to illegal fireworks, while more had active involvement (6, 75%).

The new cases include the first case this year of hearing loss due to fireworks. A 23 year old woman from Central Luzon experienced hearing loss after passive exposure to the kwitis (sky rocket). There have been no additional reports of amputation or ingestion thus far.

Watching community fireworks displays from a safe distance is still the best. If you cannot avoid exposure to fireworks and their loud sounds, use hearing protection like earplugs or earmuffs. If you notice any pain, discomfort, ringing, or buzzing in your ears, talk to your doctor.

There are now ninety six (96) fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) overall, with three out of every ten cases coming from NCR (33, 34%). Following NCR in rank as to number of cases are Central Luzon (12, 12%), Ilocos Region (12, 12%), Soccsksargen (6, 6%), Bicol Region (5, 5%), and Western Visayas (5, 5%). Ninety six percent (96%) happened at home and in the streets, mostly by males with active involvement. The top ranking identified fireworks that cause at least seven out of every ten (72%) FWRIs are Boga*, 5-Star*, Kwitis, Piccolo*, Pla-Pla*, Whistle Bomb, and Luces. Illegal fireworks (marked with an asterisk) are to blame for about six out of every ten cases (57, 60%).

Let us bring in a #BagongPilipinas where #BawatBuhayMahalaga and fireworks injuries are minimized.