MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – Officials of the Pangasinan Provincial Health Office (PHO) warned Pangasinenses of the expected increase in food poisoning cases and firecracker-related injuries during the Christmas season.
In a virtual forum hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Pangasinan on Tuesday, PHO health education promotion officer Rhodalia Binay-an said firecracker-related injuries from Dec.21, 2022 to Jan. 6, 2023 increased by 87 percent compared to the same period in the previous year.
She said most of the victims are aged between five to 14, with three of them amputated.
She said firecrackers could also cause food poisoning, hence proper and thorough handwashing is advised.
During the same briefing, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Cielo Almoite said food poisoning and acute gastritis as well as diarrhea were among the health concerns during the holiday season, thus, the need for proper food preparation to prevent such illnesses.
She also advised Pangasinenses to maintain a proper diet and continue maintenance medication for those with comorbidities. (PNA)
