Health facilities near Mayon Volcano placed on blue alert

THE Department of Health (DOH) has placed all health facilities in areas surrounding Mayon Volcano on blue alert.

“Remember, there is a concomitant health risk while being close to the eruption because of inhaling sulfur dioxide gas or particular matter of the ashfall,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said in a virtual briefing on Sunday.

Residents board a military truck as they evacuate their village due to an eruption threat from nearby Mayon volcano, in Daraga on June 9, 2023. PHOTO BY CHARISM SAYAT/ AFP

He stressed the need to provide additional tents to decongest evacuation centers and prevent the spread of illnesses.

There are 18 evacuation centers housing more than 6,300 individuals from vulnerable areas close to the volcano which is now on Alert Level 3.

Herbosa also warned spectators watching Mayon Volcano's “silent eruption” outdoors.

“Sulfur dioxide emissions can stick to the hemoglobin and cause blood poisoning. The dust and ash, on the other hand, can stick to our lungs,” he said.