DOH: Fireworks injuries drop to 534; most victims under 20

As of January 2, the number of fireworks-related injuries has dropped slightly compared to last year's figures, with a total of 534 cases recorded from December 22 to January 2.

The DOH reported that most victims were injured by illegal firecrackers such as kwitis, boga, five-star, and whistle bomb, and urged the public to wash their wounds and seek medical assistance if necessary.

Three hundred twenty-two of the injured are aged 19 and below, while 212 others are aged 20 and up; a total of 443 victims are male and 91 female.

The DOH continues to remind the public about avoiding illegal fireworks to prevent injuries like blindness, loss of hearing, burns, and limb amputations.

Road accidents accounted for 359 cases since December 21, while non-communicable diseases linked to unhealthy holiday diets and excessive alcohol consumption are also being monitored by the department.