DOH DECLARES ‘CODE WHITE’ FOR UNDAS

THE Department of Health (DOH) has declared a Code White Alert status until November 2.

The Department has placed all its hospitals, central and regional offices nationwide under heightened preparedness for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

The alert, which was activated on Oct. 31, ensures the readiness of DOH facilities and healthcare workers to respond to any medical emergencies during the “Undas” weekend.

Hospital operations centers have also been directed to coordinate closely with regional and central DOH offices for timely reporting and response.

According to the DOH, two fully equipped Level 3 ambulances have been deployed and are on standby at the Manila North and Manila South Cemeteries to assist visitors who may require emergency medical attention.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa reminded the public to observe proper hygiene and health precautions, including cough etiquette and frequent handwashing or use of alcohol, as the country remains in the flu season.

Herbosa advised visitors to cemeteries to bring drinking water and maintenance medicines, especially if they expect to stay for long hours.

The Health official earlier inspected the emergency stations on SLEX as part of the Department’s Undas preparedness operations.

He said the initiative aims to ensure the safety of Filipinos traveling to provinces and cemeteries to observe All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

He reminded the public to remain vigilant against influenza-like illnesses, noting that flu cases typically rise during the amihan or cold season.