THE Department of Health (DOH) delivered free medicines and face masks, and offered medical consultations for families affected by the Navotas Landfill fire in Bulacan on Friday.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said that the toxic hazards brought about by the fire — which released harmful gases such as methane, sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide into the air — highlight the urgent need to protect the health of residents in affected areas.
“We are prioritizing the public's health and safety by distributing N95 masks, which are more effective than ordinary surgical masks in filtering out toxic particles from the smoke,” Herbosa explained in Filipino.
He added that the DOH is also offering medicines, particularly for respiratory conditions like asthma and cough, along with vitamins, to about 126 families — or 381 individuals — affected by the fire.
The fire, which has yet to be fully extinguished after almost a week, continues to generate toxic smoke. The DOH said it will coordinate closely with local government units and health officials to mitigate its impact.
“Our first objective is to suppress the smoke, as it is the primary source of the public health threat,” Herbosa stated.
To address its potential long-term health risks, Herbosa said they will conduct blood tests on the victims to detect exposure to toxic gases, including sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide.
"The accumulation of these gases in the bloodstream can have serious health effects over time," Herbosa warned.
He assured the public that the DOH is working with toxicology experts to assess the results and determine further necessary actions.
