THE Department of Health (DOH) is reporting a significant decrease in firework-related injuries this New Year’s, with a preliminary count of 235 cases as of New Year’s Day. However, the DOH cautions that this number is expected to rise as late reports continue to come in from hospitals across the country.
The data, gathered from December 21, 2025, to January 1, 2026, as of 4:00 am, is based on reports from 62 sentinel hospitals, which are select government hospitals being monitored by the DOH. The DOH notes that the 235 injuries recorded as of January 1, 2026, represent almost half the number of injuries recorded on the same date last year, January 1, 2025.
While the DOH welcomes the lower number of injuries, officials emphasize that late reports will continue to be recorded until January 1. “In the meantime, all who had encounters with fireworks, no matter how small the wound, should seek consultation at the nearest hospital to avoid tetanus,” the DOH said in a statement.
DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo warned that symptoms of tetanus may not appear until eight to 21 days after exposure. The DOH also reminds the public that vaccination against tetanus is readily available at hospitals.
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