DOH now on Code White Alert for ‘Undas’

According to DOH Spokesperson Dr. Eric Tayag, ‘Code White Alert’ is declared when there is a mass gathering or national event. (PNA file photo)

MANILA—The Department of Health (DOH) has placed all of its hospitals and regional offices nationwide on Code White Alert on Sunday until Nov. 2 in preparation for any events or health-related incidents that may occur during the country’s observance of All Saints’ Day.

According to DOH Spokesperson Dr. Eric Tayag, ‘Code White Alert’ is declared when there is a mass gathering or national event.

Tayag said that while possibility of emergency conditions is not being asked and usually desired to be prevented, the need for immediate medical attention to be quickly rendered should be assured during these events.

“This means also that all medical teams are on standby for immediate mobilization,” Tayag said in an interview with the media.

The DOH Spokesperson further explained that Code White Alert is based on Administrative Order No. 2008-0024 which calls for readiness of hospital manpower like general and orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, internists, and nurses, to respond to any emergency situation.

The medicine, equipment and supplies needed in the operations are also being readied as part of the alert status that it wanted to convey in the goal to bring the immediate hospital care and intervention as part of the goal to save lives of patients.

In line with this, the agency’s Health Emergency Management Bureau operations center will continuously monitor any health-related event that may occur during the holidays.

The DOH is also working closely with other agencies such as Bureau of Fire Protection, Metro Manila Development Authority, and local government health units for a coordinated health emergency response.

In addition, there were also DOH Hotlines where calls may be made by the public who may need assistance.

They may be reached thru (02) 711-1001 or (02) 711-1002.

Meanwhile, as a safety tip, DOH advises the public to be sure to bring their own water and even packed foods as they are not sure if the foods sold within the cemeteries are safe to eat.

Aside from that, they also reminded the public to apply skin repellants to avoid mosquito bites which can bring dengue, zika and chikungunya illnesses.

Small children and those with immuno-compromised conditions are better advised to stay at home and not mix to big crowds.

DOH even said that prayers offered for departed souls of loved ones can also be done as “good option” in churches by other people so that cemeteries will not be overcrowded.

They also joined the reminder to the public to be sure that doors and windows of their homes are well-locked as they leave their house.

In its Facebook account, the agency also reminded the public to be sure that there are no unplugged appliances, burning candles, water leaks, and unattended important belongings before leaving their houses.