DOH Metro Manila on 'Code White' until Nov. 2
2024-Nov-01 10:00
HOSPITALS ON ALERT. A worker from the Manila Department of Engineering and Public Works uses a power hose to clean the entrance of the Manila North Cemetery in Sta. Cruz District on Monday (Oct. 28, 2024). The Department of Health – Metro Manila Center for Health Development said all hospitals and health facilities in the National Capital Region are on Code White until Nov. 2 due to the expected influx of cemeterygoers during the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day on Nov. 1-2. (PNA/Yancy Lim)
MANILA – The Department of Health – Metro Manila Center for Health Development (DOH-MMCHD) said Thursday all hospitals and health facilities throughout the National Capital Region (NCR) are on Code White alert until Nov. 2.
This is a precautionary measure to ensure the readiness of medical services in light of the expected influx of visitors to the cemeteries and increased travel for All Saints' and All Souls' Days.
Code White alert means medical personnel in hospitals and health offices are on high alert and are prepared to provide necessary health services and avoid potential health emergencies.
The DOH-MMCHD has activated its regional Operation Center (OPCEN) to monitor events and has coordinated with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health (DRRM-H) of the local government units (LGUs) to activate their preparedness plans and protocols.
LGUs and hospitals in the NCR will maintain the functions of the OPCEN/Regional Patient Navigation and Referral Center round-the-clock from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2.
Health emergency response teams and necessary medical supplies are also on standby for immediate deployment if needed.
The DOH-MMCHD issued a public health advisory urging citizens to adhere to essential health and hygiene practices – hand hygiene, cough etiquette and respiratory hygiene, and wearing face masks, particularly in crowded areas.
The department also cautioned against food-borne illnesses and food poisoning, which can arise from infectious agents (such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites) and non-infectious agents (including chemicals and toxins from plants and animals).
The public is encouraged to practice safe food handling and preparation methods.
For health assistance in the region, the public may contact the DOH-MMCHD Health Emergency Management Unit (HEMU) at 8531-0037 local 118 and 119. (PNA)