The Department of Health (DOH) today strongly advised parents and caregivers to keep a watchful eye on children this holiday season. Children aged 5-9 were among the most vulnerable during last year’s holiday celebration, and suffered the most number of injuries.
Of the total 340 cases recorded from 21 December 2018 to 5 January this year, 338 were fireworks injuries, while two were cases of fireworks ingestion. Of the 338 injuries due to fireworks, 275 (81%) were males, and 80 (24%) belonged to the 5-9 years age group. Age range of cases were from two to 76 years old.
Most cases came from the National Capital Region (123 cases or 36%), Ilocos Region (52 cases or 15%), and Western Visayas (51 cases or 15%). About 78% of cases sustained blast or burn injuries that did not require amputation. The top five body parts injured were the hand (45%), eye (25%), head and legs (10%), and forearm/arm (9%).
“We are continuously communicating to the public the dangers of fireworks use. The DOH is advocating alternative and equally enjoyable ways of celebrating the holidays and welcoming the New Year without the risk of physical harm. I enjoin everyone to participate in the Iwas Paputok Campaign of the DOH.” Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque said.
Injuries were caused by both legal and prohibited fireworks. Accounting for most of the recorded injuries were kwitis (22%), luces (12%), piccolo and boga (6% each), and triangle (5%).
“Lahat ng paputok ay nakakadisgrasya. Kaya iwasan po natin ang paggamit ng mga paputok. Community fireworks displays, street parties, musical concerts, horns, among others are safer and more festive alternatives to lighting up firecrackers,” the Health Secretary appealed to all Filipinos.