DOH: Don’t bring small children to cemeteries

FILE: HALLOWEEN GREETING. The image of the Grim Reaper seems to be a welcoming sight for these children as they pass through the entrance of the Angono Municipal Cemetery along Manila East Road in Angono, Rizal on Friday (Oct. 27, 2023). As in many other cemeteries, people have begun visiting their departed loved ones days before the observance of All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2 to avoid crowds. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday urged the public not to bring small children to cemeteries to keep them from getting injuries and catching diseases from overcrowding.

“I am advising parents and caregivers not to bring small children to cemeteries as overcrowding and intense heat and sudden unexpected downpour may cause diseases to small children,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said in a statement.

Herbosa noted that while Covid-19 cases are plateauing nationwide, the threat of the disease is still present.

“There are still sporadic cases and increasing cases in some regions. Also, small children (have) low resistance against infections,” he said.

Herbosa also cautioned against patronizing ambulant vendors inside and outside the cemeteries selling green mangoes, sandwiches, fruit juices, and similar food.

Such food may be contaminated by unsafe water and other elements of the environment, which may compromise the health and safety of consumers, he said.

“We can all prevent contracting diseases when visiting our dearly departed loved ones. Let us be responsible with our actions and make our visit solemn,” he added.

The DOH advises cemetery-goers to plan their visit and bring their own water and food to ensure their safety and prevent diseases.