In response to rising haze levels, the City Health Office (CHO) is urging outdoor workers in Davao City to observe recommended preventive measures while working amid the current haze condition, mainly in affected areas to minimize potential health risks from prolonged exposure.
Dr. Margie R. Rubio, the Officer-In-Charge of the CHO, highlighted that Dabawenyos are encouraged to follow the minimum prevention and control recommended by the Department of Health (DOH) to reduce possible health risks associated with haze exposure.
For outdoor workers who need to continue working despite the haze, the CHO said they have to wear N95 mask to help reduce the inhalation of fine particles. If N95 mask is unavailable, residents may use ordinary masks as long as these properly cover the nose and the mouth.
Dr. Rubio also advised Dabawenyo workers to stay hydrated by drinking enough water, especially those who spend extended periods outdoors, wherein sunglasses may be worn to help protect the eyes from irritation. And upon returning home, residents are advised to take a bath and do proper personal hygiene to remove particles that may have settled on the skin, hair, or clothing while outdoors.
They are likewise encouraged to monitor themselves for any symptoms or unusual health conditions. Health centers are prepared to assist those who feel unwell, with residents in areas more affected by the haze and urged to be particularly vigilant.
Private clinics and hospitals are also being encouraged to provide priority lane or any appropriate mechanisms to assist Davao workers who may experience complications or other health effects related to haze exposure. And that as of now, there are currently no recorded cases of individuals affected by the haze.
According to the latest data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), the Digos Station recorded “Fair” air quality for Particulate Matter (PM) 10 while the Calinan Station recorded “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” for PM10 pollutants. Meanwhile, both monitoring stations registered “Very Unhealthy” level for PM2.5 pollutants.
The DENR-EMB attributed the increase in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations to an on-going transboundary haze event originating from forest and fires in Indonesia. The elevated PM2.5 readings from September 7 to 8 this year marks a significant deviation from the usual “Fair” air quality conditions typically observed.
“Ang ako lang ma-advice karon especially sa atoang challenge karon sa atoang air pollution tungod aning haze na challenge, mag-hangyo lang ko sa tanan nga mufollow lang gyud ta kung unsa man ang mga minimum prevention and control na girecommend sa Department of Health (My only advice right now, especially with our current challenge regarding air pollution due to this haze, is to request everyone to simply follow whatever minimum prevention and control measures are recommended by the Department of Health),” Dr. Rubio said.
The CHO remains equipped to assist the Dabawenyos and reminds the public to stay updated through reliable and verified sources, particularly official advisories, such as in DENR-EMB, DOH, and City Government of Davao. CIO
Written by: J. Murillo
Edited by: A. Nawal