DOH: Fewer firecracker injuries reported so far

Hospitals have reported fewer firecracker-related injuries so far compared to the same time last year, the Department of Health (DOH) said Wednesday. 

Health Undersecretary Leopoldo Vega said they have received "minimal" reports from trauma centers but added that most reports come in during the New Year festivities.

At the Laging Handa briefing, Vega advised the public to avoid using firecrackers to prevent injuries especially at a time when hospitals are also dealing with COVID-19 cases. 

The DOH said on Tuesday that 13 fireworks-related injuries had been recorded in several regions. 

Eight of the injuries were classified as "blast and burn without amputation" while five were eye injuries. Most of the victims were sent home after treatment and only one remains admitted at a hospital, according to the department. 

The firecrackers that caused these mishaps were 5-Star, boga, Bong-bong, piccolo, baby rocket, fountain, kwitis, rebentador, and whistle bomb.

The DOH said the number of injuries as of December 29 is 73% or 36 cases lower compared to 2019. 

Some cities in Metro Manila, including Quezon City, Caloocan, and Pasay, have implemented firecracker bans. —KG, GMA News