Medical personnel in Metro on 24/7 duty

MANILA, Philippines – Amid non-stop rain in the capital, the Department of Health (DOH) has put all government hospitals and health facilities in Metro Manila on a “code blue alert,” which means medical personnel will be on 24-hour duty in preparation for the influx of casualties.

In a press release, the DOH explained that the elevated warning also means hospitals and community health units are preparing medicines and medical supplies for distribution among affected families. DOH operation centers (DOH-OPCEN) will be operating on a 24/7 basis.
 
“We have raised the alert due to the series of flooding in various areas of the region and the rising number of affected residents due to the continuous downfall of heavy rains. Community Health Teams will be visiting LGUs to provide medical assistance to residents affected by flood,” said Eduardo C. Janairo, the Regional Director of the DOH Center for Health Development in the National Capital Region.
 
Janairo added that special medical response teams will be coordinating with Regional Emergency Management Services, state weather bureau Pagasa, and local government units to bring relief to affected areas.

“I strongly advise residents of affected areas, especially those already submerged in floods to coordinate with your respective LGUs and evacuate immediately for their safety and that of their family. Let us all make our lives our priority during this time of calamity,” Janairo advised. – Rappler.com