By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday, Oct. 30, advised parents and guardians to avoid bringing children to cemeteries to keep them from getting injuries and diseases amid expected overcrowding this Undas season.
“I am advising parents and caregivers not to bring small children to cemeteries as overcrowding and intense heat and sudden unexpected downpour may cause diseases to small children,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said, citing children’s low resistance against infections.
Herbosa said that while COVID-19 cases are on a slowdown nationwide, the threat of COVID-19 and other sporadic diseases remains present especially in some regions where new cases are recorded.
Based on the DOH’s COVID-19 tracker, there are 4,119,478 cases in the Philippines as of Oct. 27.
There are 2,929 active COVID-19 cases in the country.
The DOH chief also warned against patronizing ambulant vendors selling green mangoes, sandwiches, fruit juices, and similar food which may be contaminated inside and outside the cemeteries.
The DOH advised cemetery-goers to bring their own water and food to ensure safety and prevent diseases.
“We can all prevent contracting diseases when visiting our dearly departed loved ones. Let us be responsible with our actions and make our visit solemn,” Herbosa said. – With a report from PTV News-ag