DOH warns public vs foodborne illnesses this Holy Week

File photo/Willie Lomibao

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday advised the public to prepare their meals properly to avoid contracting any foodborne illnesses this Holy Week.

The DOH noted that the prevailing hot weather conditions these days can make food easily spoil.

“Everyone is reminded to keep food preparation clean to avoid food-borne illnesses like food poisoning,” the DOH said in a video post in Filipino.

The agency then asked the public to seek medical consultation once the following symptoms of food poisoning persist: stomachache, vomiting, excessive bowel movement, over-fatigue, and fever.

READ: DOH warns vs health risks from ‘penitencia’

It also noted that 122 cases of food-borne illnesses were recorded in last year’s Holy Week, from March 24 to March 31, 2024.

`Dangerous’ heat index

In line with more Holy Week reminders, the DOH also warned of possible dangers brought by soaring heat indices in many areas in the country. Ten areas are forecast to experience a “dangerous” heat index level on Thursday, with Dagupan City in Pangasinan peaking at 43°C.

READ: DOH on code white this Holy Week

The DOH posted reminders to stay in cool and shaded areas if they experience any symptoms of heat exhaustion: excessive sweating, over-fatigue, headache, fainting, and blurred vision.

Aside from this, the public is also advised to ensure road safety to avoid any injuries. A total of 631 road traffic-related injuries were logged in the same period of Holy Week last year.

The agency placed all of its hospitals and health facilities under “code white” this Holy Week, where its Health Emergency Management Bureau Operation Centers and DOH hospitals are on standby to provide health-related assistance.

For any health emergencies or concerns, dial: 911 emergency hotline; and 09178059756 or 09178619528 of DOH HEMB OpCen.