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Official Publication of the Philippine Information Agency Bicol Regional Office, in cooperation with the RIAC-REDIRAS - RDC Bicol



Friday, October 24, 2014

DOH cautions residents on health hazards of Mayon eruption

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 24 (PIA) --  The Department of Health (DOH) regional office in Bicol has advised the public to be ready and protect themselves  against the hazardous health implications that the eruption, particularly ash fall, of  Mayon volcano may bring about.

“Whether one lives nearby or distant from the danger zones, one is still susceptible from the hazards of Mayon Volcano, particularly from gaseous elements and ashes, that may cause minor to life threatening hazards.” warned DOH Bicol regional director Gloria J. Balboa.

Mayon Volcano emitted moderate amount of white steam and restrained lava flow during the weekend. The emission is expected to progress since the volcano remains at Alert Level 3 which indicates that “magma is at the crater and (a) hazardous eruption is possible within weeks” according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Magma is full of dissolved gases that are released into the atmosphere during eruptions. Gases are released from magma and it can either stay below ground or rise toward the surface. Volcanic gases can ascend about 100 kilometers into the atmosphere during great eruptions. The eruption cloud may reach hundreds to thousand kilometers from the volcano when blown by prevailing winds.

Volcanic gases emitted may contain carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Breathing air with more than 30% of carbon dioxide is lethal to both people and animals. It may cause headache, increased breathing, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, impaired coordination, loss of consciousness and convulsions.

Sulfur dioxide, on the other hand, is easy to identify because of its pungent odor that directly irritates skin and the tissues, mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and throat. Said chemical primarily affects upper respiratory tract and bronchi.

Aside from volcanic gas, people also need to watch out for the health effects of volcanic ash. People may experience respiratory difficulties, eye irritation, acute conjunctivitis, minor skin irritations, and photosensitivity during and after ash fall.

Thus, DOH ROV issues this advisory for the protection of the general population during these events;

1.    Remain indoors. If possible, with closed doors, windows and ventilation.

2.    Avoid unnecessary exposure to ash and wear a face mask (preferably a particulate respirator or dust mask) when outside to reduce inhalation of ash particles. However, if you find it more difficult to breathe with the mask on, don’t use it. Just stay indoors.

3.    Wear PROTECTIVE CLOTHING and high-efficiency dust masks (N95,N99 or N100 for regular use and chemical cartridge/particulate respirator, goggles, protective clothing and footwear for emergency workers) during and after volcanic-related emissions/events.

4.    If no dust mask or respirator is available, a fabric mask improvised from handkerchiefs, cloth, or clothing will filter out the larger ash particles which may contribute to throat and eye irritation. Dampening the fabric with water will improve its effectiveness.

5.    Patients with chronic bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory ailments should stay indoors and take special precaution to avoid exposure articles.

6.    Persistent acid rain causes galvanized nails or lead solder in water catchment systems to deteriorate and release toxic metals into drinking water. Thus, water receptacles should be properly covered with impermeable material (e.g. polyethylene or polypropylene plastic, etc.) at all times in the homes and evacuation centers. Regular monitoring of drinking water quality is also recommended.

7.    Observe personal hygiene such as bathing and hand washing. Provide nutritious food and micronutrient supplementation (such as Vitamin C, iron, etc.).

8.    Handle the ash in open, well-ventilated areas, and wet the dust whenever possible to prevent its movement.

9.    In fine-ash environments, wear goggles or corrective eyeglasses to protect eyes from irritation.

10.  Keep all doors closed when there is a heavy accumulation of ash. Keep children inside.

11.  Personnel not essential for emergency may stay inside and strictly observe all safety precautions during cleanup.

12.  Vehicular and industrial accidents are more likely to occur because of reduced visibility. Keep a proper distance between vehicles when driving near areas where there are on-going volcanic emissions/events.  (MAL/DOH5Release/PIA5)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/771414387736/doh-cautions-residents-on-health-hazards-of-mayon-eruption#sthash.7rMep1xP.dpuf

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