The Department of Health (DOH) reported Sunday they are now coordinating with local government units (LGUs) to move high risk individuals to safe grounds amid the latest weather forecast on severe tropical storm ‘Nika’ (international name: Toraji).
The DOH said it aims to evacuate in advance women in their third trimester of pregnancy, lactating mothers, young children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
“Now is the time to pre-emptively evacuate families in areas that are prone to landslides and floods due to the effects of storm ‘Nika,’” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stated in Tagalog.
“Our health facilities and DOH hospitals are ready to ensure continuous delivery of services despite the threat of the looming typhoon. Let us stay alert and obey the authorities’ notice of evacuation even as the storm is yet to make a landfall,” he added.
In line with this, the DOH directed all health facilities to prioritize the admission of pregnant women at high risk of complications. Moreover, it reminded the general public to be prepared in the event of calamity.
The DOH advised individuals and families to have their emergency ‘Go Bag’ packed in case mandatory evacuations are enforced. These bags must include essential items such as first aid and survival kits, among other personal effects (i.e. sets of clothes, toiletries, communication devices, etc.).
Health experts also strongly encouraged the public to actively listen and monitor weather updates from the trusted sources as well as heed the advice of local government authorities.
