Residents of storm-hit Masbate province have received more than P2.5 million worth of health aid, including water assistance, from the Department of Health (DOH) 5 (Bicol).
Dr. Aurora Teresa Daluro, regional epidemiologist and head of Public Health Preparedness and Response Unit of DOH-5, said Tuesday the aid included drugs and medicines, hygiene kits, breastfeeding kits, surgical masks, and jerry cans to help ensure a clean water supply in evacuation centers and affected communities.
‘Our priority is to ensure that communities have access to essential medicines, clean water, and hygiene materials to prevent disease outbreaks in the aftermath of the typhoon,’ she said.
The department continues to conduct Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) monitoring in several areas hit by Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name Bualoi) last month.
Results showed several water sources, including open deep wells in several areas, failed testing, prompting further interventions to ensure water safety.
‘Our teams are already implementing measures on the failed water sources to prevent the spread of the illness,’ Daluro added.
About 113 evacuees at the Nursery Elementary School Evacuation Center received psychosocial interventions, helping those displaced by the storm cope and recover emotionally.
‘Aside from physical health, we are also addressing the mental and emotional well-being of evacuees through our psychosocial support programs,’ Daluro said.
During the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Oct. 1, a total of PHP3 million in financial aid was provided to Masbate for the repair of damaged health facilities. (With a report from Valerie Olano