ILOILO — With daily gatherings, office parties, school events, and reunions expected to surge this December, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has sounded the alarm over rising risks of illnesses and accidents, urging Ilonggos to strictly follow its Ligtas Christmas guidelines for a safe and healthy holiday season.
IPHO said the campaign centers on three major components — “Biyahealthy,” “Healthy Handaan,” and “Iwas Paputok” — as health threats typically spike during the festive period.
“Subong nga bulan sang Disyembre, halos adlaw-adlaw ang aton selebrasyon kag pagsinadya… So, kaupod sa aton selebrasyon, nagataas man ang aton risgu nga makakuha sang balatian and even injuries,” said Dr. Rodney Labis, head of the IPHO Health Service Delivery Division.
Food poisoning, overeating, holiday-related illnesses
To keep holiday feasts safe, IPHO urged households to strictly observe proper food preparation and storage.
Among the reminders:
* Practice proper handwashing to prevent contamination.
* Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and leftovers are stored properly.
* Check the appearance and smell of food before serving.
* Maintain balanced and nutritious meals following the Pinggang Pinoy guide.
“Be cautious man sa aton food choices and dapat masunod gihapon ang nutritious and balance nga unod sang aton nga pinggan sando sa Pinggang Pinoy,” Labis added.
He also emphasized portion control, avoiding overeating, maintaining regular exercise, taking maintenance medication, and choosing water over sugary or alcoholic drinks.
Travel smart, avoid drunk driving, protect loved ones
With road accidents historically increasing during the holidays, IPHO strongly warned against drunk driving.
“Sa aton mga abyan, responsable man naton nga siguruhon nga ang kaupod sa selebrasyon ang makapuli sang safe sa panimalay,” Labis said.
He reminded the public to:
* Never drink and drive.
* Wear helmets when riding motorcycles and seatbelts when driving.
* Avoid cellphone use and other distractions on the road.
Skip firecrackers, keep fingers complete this New Year
IPHO also issued a firm appeal to avoid firecrackers altogether, citing the recurring cases of injuries every year.
Labis encouraged families to use safer alternatives like banging pots and cans to welcome the New Year.
He further reminded parents to closely supervise children and ensure that emergency hotlines of their LGUs are accessible.
The IPHO reiterated its call for vigilance, noting that a truly joyful Christmas is one celebrated in good health and safety./PN
