The Department of Health in Bicol (DOH-5) on Tuesday provided tips for the public to ensure a healthy and safe observance of the Holy Week and the summer vacation (SumVac) in the region.

In a media release, the DOH-5 urged the public to follow wellness and safety guidelines during the upcoming “Semana Santa,” including using an umbrella if sun exposure is unavoidable and wearing comfortable clothing while participating in the Visita Iglesia and Stations of the Cross.

To avoid dehydration, individuals were encouraged to drink adequate amounts of clean water and consume food to prevent dizziness caused by hunger.

“Dispose of trash in proper bins and ensure that the food you bring does not spoil easily,” the DOH-5 said.

When taking a child out, it is important to ensure they are accompanied by an adult and to place contact information in their pocket in case they get lost, it said.

For a safe and well-prepared Holy Week during penance, the DOH-5 underscored the importance of ensuring that any whip used for penance is clean.

The nails should be sterilized by soaking them in alcohol, be rust-free, and be protected from contamination before use. Additionally, any wounds should be immediately cleaned and treated with soap and clean water.

The DOH-5 also recommended getting vaccinated with tetanus toxoid (TT) or anti-tetanus Serum (ATS) before participating in any crucifixion activities.

“For TT, the vaccination should be administered three years before the act, while ATS can be given at any time before the penance,” DOH said.

To prevent road accidents, the DOH-5, meanwhile, urged the public to adhere to traffic laws, be considerate of other vehicles and pedestrians, cross only at designated crosswalks, and ensure that their vehicles are in good condition.

When driving, the DOH-5 advised motorists to avoid texting or making calls, refrain from driving after consuming alcohol or feeling drowsy, and always wear seat belts or helmets when riding a motorcycle or bicycle.

For emergencies, the DOH Bicol emergency hotline can be reached at (052) 742-5555, local 5042.

Blood donation drive

Meanwhile, the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Daraga Chapter collected 56 bags, totaling over 22,000 cubic centimeters (cc) of blood during its donation drive conducted on Tuesday at the Daraga Doctors Hospital.

The bloodletting activity was part of the JCI Week and JCI Daraga’s Day of Valor celebration, with the theme “Dugong Alay, Pagpaparangal sa Kagitingan.” The initiative aimed to support blood supply efforts and reaffirm the importance of donating blood.

Dr. Erika Villaluz, the JCI Daraga project chair, said becoming a donor offers various benefits, including free health check-ups, reducing the risk of heart and liver diseases, facilitating the development of new blood cells, lowering cholesterol levels, and assisting in weight management.

The initiative is part of the organization’s response to the government’s call to conduct activities that help boost the blood supply in the Bicol Region. (PNA)