Herbosa says all hospitals ready for incidents this Holy Week

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Tuesday ensured that all hospitals are prepared for any incidents amid the Holy Week in which most of the people are on vacation, underscoring addressing heat-related illnesses.

''So, let me say that the Department of Health has declared Code White on all our hospitals. That means, they are ready for the... iyong all the incidents that can happen for people traveling for this Holy Week,'' Herbosa said in a Palace press briefing.

''Number two, of course, our warnings for effects of heat illness especially for people going to hot areas like the beaches. So, very important, stay protected. So, sunscreen for those going out; hydration; and then, don’t stay too long in the sun, for those people,'' he added.

Herbosa said the Department of Health would also monitor drowning incidents as most people are on vacation and some troop to the beach this Holy Week.

''And, of course, every Holy Week, nagkakaroon kami ng mga problems of drowning and near drowning so very important din to watch your family especially in these places where you are vacationing and relaxing, make sure do not drink and drive; do not text and drive; and follow the rules of the road,'' Herbosa said.

Earlier, the DOH already shared essential tips to help the public stay safe from heat-related illnesses.

DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo stressed the importance of proper ventilation when indoors.

He also highlighted the need for hydration, advising people to drink at least seven to eight glasses of water daily to prevent heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

He also advised the public to take regular breaks or "heat breaks" to prevent overheating.

The Health chief also expressed hope that there would be no road rage incident among travelers this Holy Week.

''Sana walang road rage kasi nga eh ano naman tayo ‘di ba, Holy Week (I hope there's no road rage since it's Holy Week), be patient and be kind to the other road users,'' Herbosa said. — BAP, GMA Integrated News