Cordova folk told to avoid spill site

RESIDENTS of coastal barangays in Cordova town were advised by provincial health authorities yesterday to stay out of the areas affected by the oil spill.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Cynthia Genesolango said this after receiving reports that passengers and crewmen of the MV St. Thomas Aquinas and MV Sulpicio Express Siete are suffering from respiratory tract infection.

She said the illness was likely caused by ingestion of  oil contaminated water.

“Kerosene is hydrocarbon and when exposed to it can cause inflammation of the lungs, difficulty of breathing and other symptoms. They are usually advised to do a follow-up examination like X-ray tests,” Dr. Genesolango said.

She said some of the survivors nearly drowned.

“Usually in maritime incidents, they ingest water that’s contaminated. That’s one of the major problems with our survivors,” the provincial health officer said.

While a number of the survivors were already discharged, some are still confined in hospitals.

Aside from respiratory tract infection, the survivors also  suffered from wounds, bruises and fractures.

“It could be injury to the muscles and thoracic cage, causing limited respiratory movement,” she said.

Dr. Genesolango said 2GO Shipping management is shouldering the medical expenses of the survivors. Correspondent Peter L. Romanillos