By Brian Jules Campued
The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday, Dec. 28, reported a total of 88 cases of fireworks-related injuries (FWRIs) in the country, including a four-year old boy who accidentally swallowed a “watusi” at home.
In its latest report, the DOH said 13 new cases of FWRIs were logged from 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday until 5:59 a.m. on Thursday.
Some 12 of these cases happened either at home or on the streets.
“Kasama sa bagong kaso ang unang kaso ng paglunok ng paputok: Isang 4 na taong gulang na batang lalaki mula sa Calabarzon ang aksidenteng nakalunok ng watusi sa bahay,” the Health department said in a statement.
Of the new cases, 10 are men while the ages of the victims are between five and 49.
Five were injured by illegal firecrackers.
Majority of the total FWRIs are from the National Capital Region which logged 31 cases or 35%, Central Luzon with 11 or 12%, and Ilocos Region with 10 or 11%.
The leading cause of these injuries was illegal firecrackers, including Boga, Five-star, Piccolo, and Pla-pla.
First Aid for FWRI
The DOH also reminded the public to avoid buying “watusi” as kids often mistake it as candies, which can lead to fatality if ingested.
In case of “watusi” ingestion, the DOH discouraged the public to vomit and instead drink around six to eight egg whites for kids, and eight to 12 for adults.
The victim must be brought to a hospital immediately.
If the firecracker gets to the eyes, wash the affected area with clean water for at least 15 minutes, keep them open, and consult a doctor.
If it irritated the skin, the DOH advised to also wash them, take off the contaminated clothes, and also go to a doctor.
If “watusi” was inhaled, the victim must inhale clean, fresh air and seek immediate medical care. – cf