The Department of Health (DOH) has reiterated its call to the public against feasting on unhealthy food this holiday season.

Exuperia Sabalberino, DOH Eastern Visayas regional director, said just like any ordinary day, people should not forget about health and diet to avoid risk for a range of chronic illnesses including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and arthritis, among others.

“The types of food that we should avoid or consume in moderation are those with high sugar, salt, and fat. However, most conveniently forget about this especially this time of the year as people spend quality time with loved ones through sumptuous celebrations,” she said in a virtual press conference on Wednesday.

The health department reminded the public to be health-conscious and also serve nutritious food like root crops, vegetables, fruits, and fish, not just this holiday season but also during normal festivities year-round.

Although it recognizes the significance of celebrating family and cultural traditions during this Christmas, the DOH said certain preventive measures and strategies must be observed in participating in holiday activities amid the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Sabalberino urged the public to avoid social events and limit holiday celebrations with immediate family members only.

She also encouraged everyone to use alternative noise-making tools in welcoming the New Year instead of firecrackers and “torotot” or whistles for adults and kids due to respiratory droplets that would risk the spread of the virus.

“It’s not only our campaign. We all can contribute to break the chain of transmission and ensure safe holiday celebrations by observing the minimum health standards,” Salbaberino said.

The DOH reiterated its information drive dubbed “BIDA Solusyon”, which promotes four key behaviors to reduce the possible transmission of the virus.

BIDA stands for Bawal walang mask (Not wearing a face mask is not allowed); I-sanitize ang mga kamay at iwas hawak sa mga bagay (Sanitize your hands and avoid touching surfaces); Dumistansya ng isang metro (Keep a one-meter distance from other people); and Alamin ang totoong impormasyon (Know the factual information).

To date, the region has recorded a total of 9,724 coronavirus cases, including 8,943 recoveries and 109 deaths. (PNA)