DOH warns Bulusan Volcano area residents of health risks

The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday issued a new warning for residents near Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon province, urging them to take extra precautions following recent volcanic activity.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa highlighted the serious health risks posed by ashfall and advised individuals with asthma, heart disease, and lung conditions to stay away from danger zones and seek temporary shelter.

Residents were instructed not to approach the volcano within its 4-kilometer permanent danger zone and to take protective measures such as wearing N95 masks when going out.

The DOH committed to delivering adequate medical supplies for health workers deployed in affected areas and cautioned against possible outbreaks of diseases like dengue and diarrhea due to overcrowding and unsafe conditions in evacuation centers.

Emergency contacts for medical needs include the DOH hotline at 1555 press 2, Public Health Preparedness and Response Unit at (052) 742-5555 local 5017, and HEMS Operation Center at 09162349063.

For updates on the volcano's activity, residents are advised to follow information from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.