DOH deploys PHP211M in aid, visits evac centers

The Department of Health (DOH) has deployed PHP31 million worth of emergency medicines and logistics to flood-affected regions across Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Northern Mindanao.

Additional PHP180 million worth of emergency medicines remain on standby for deployment if needed in other affected areas.

DOH officials have visited evacuation centers to assess needs such as water, sanitation, hygiene facilities, meal quality, and provided hygiene kits, drinking water containers, chlorine tablets, and breastfeeding kits.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa personally inspected Marikina's Nangka Elementary School and H. Bautista Elementary School housing evacuees earlier this week.

DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo assured there are enough medical supplies and health workers ready to respond in evacuation centers with no major disease outbreaks reported so far, noting that most illnesses are minor respiratory issues.

Domingo advised individuals who waded in floodwaters about the proper intake of doxycycline as a post-exposure prophylaxis measure.