Experts and the Department of Health (DOH) warned of the possible health hazards of sulfur dioxide due to Taal’s eruption and the threat posed by volcanic smog (‘vog’) to nearby communities.
The DOH said sulfur dioxide is a poisonous gas that can also be formed due to volcanic eruption, and exposure to it can cause eye, skin, and respiratory illnesses.
Among the common symptoms following inhalation and exposure to sulfur dioxide are difficulty breathing, itchiness of skin or eyes, mucus secretion, bronchitis, coughing, and asthma.
“Basically, it’s an irritant. Parang ‘pag nasama kasi with water, parang asido din ‘yan talaga. Mamumula ‘yung balat mo, depende doon sa level ng sulfur dioxide. Pero ang mas magiging epekto niyan sa mata, maluluha ka, sasakit ang mata mo,” said Dr. Vincent Balanag Jr., Lung Center of the Philippines Executive Director IV.
Individuals experiencing such symptoms after sulfur dioxide exposure are urged to call their hospitals or poison control centers.
The DOH advised residents in high-risk areas, or those living near Taal, to immediately evacuate to prevent exposure. Those living in other affected areas were told to avoid going out, and to wear a face mask and eye and skin protection.
The department and Balanag also cautioned the public to monitor for possible ashfall.
“Ang mas malaking effect talaga doon sa volcanic [eruption] ay ‘yung volcanic ash. Kasi ‘yung sulfur dioxide, gas kasi ‘yan, pwede naman ma-blowoff ng wind ‘yan eh,” Balanag said.
“During the process of eruption, usually kung malayo naman ‘yung mga tao, hindi naman talaga sila diretsang maapektuhan niyan,” he added.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said ashfall is considered harmful to individuals with asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Based on the latest Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) monitoring report, Taal emitted more than 13,000 tons of sulfur dioxide on July 1. – Report from Karen Villanda/AG- jlo
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