DOH declares 'Code Blue Alert' in Metro Manila

MANILA -- The Department of Health (DOH) declared Tuesday a "Code Blue Alert" in all government hospitals and health facilities in Metro Manila following the continuing inclement weather brought about by southwest monsoon.

"We have raised the alert due to the series of flooding in various areas of the region and the rising number of affected residents due to the continuous downfall of heavy rains," DOH-National Capital Region (NCR) Director Eduardo Janairo.

He said Community Health Teams (CHTs) will be visiting local government units to provide medical assistance to residents affected by flood.

Leptospirosis prophylaxis will also be given to residents in evacuation centers to avert possible spread of leptospirosis in the area, he added.

"The CHD–Special Medical Action Response Team (Smart) and the Regional Health Emergency Management Service (RHEMS) will be coordinating with Pagasa, NDRRMC, and various local government units to continue providing support and alerting affected LGUs," he added.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (Pagasa) and the National Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Council (NRRMC) are two lead agencies during calamities.

During a Code Blue alert, medical personnel will be on 24-hour duty.

Hospitals and community health units are prepared to accept an influx of casualties.

Medicines and medical supplies are also ready to be distributed to affected residents.

DOH operation centers will also be operating on a 24/7 basis. Close coordination with local government units, emergency and disaster units and also with the Armed Forces are being effected to handle possible calamities.

"I strongly advise residents of affected areas, especially those already submerged in floods to coordinate with your respective LGUs and evacuate immediately for their safety and that of their family. Let us all make our lives our priority during this time of calamity," Janairo said. (SDR/Sunnex)