• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Department of Health Negros Island Region reported yesterday that the health situation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) at 22 Kanlaon evacuation centers is currently “manageable,” compared to previous weeks.
What we are now seeing are usual ailments experienced by evacuees, such as colds and cough, as well as fever, which are concerns similar to those usually being referred to rural health units and health centers, on Thursday disclosed Dr. Razzel Nikka Hao, DOH NIR regional director.
There are no referrals of any ailments to higher level facilities or hospitals, Hao said
In previous weeks, IDPs mostly complained of acute respiratory infections, among other illnesses.
Hao also noted the absence of water and hygiene-related ailments, as of this time.
Given the situation, Hao said they are now bringing in routine services, such as immunization, and distribution of supplemental vitamins to malnourished children.
She added that flu vaccines are now coming in at the evacuation centers, for availment of adults, although some of whom are complaining of hypertension and diabetes.
Records of the Department of Social Welfare and Development indicate that there are presently 3,621 families, composed of 11,371 persons, staying inside and outside of evacuation centers.
Hao said that they also prepositioned stocks of medicines in RHUs near evacuation centers, as part of their preparations for a worst case scenario.*