El Niño and our health
AS THE El Niño phenomenon tightens its grip on our land, the Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has issued a warning: an anticipated surge in heat-related diseases that could affect our communities profoundly. The conditions expected to rise include a wide spectrum, from hypertension and asthma to more severe ailments such as heat stroke, cholera, and leptospirosis. This broad range of potential health threats underscores the profound impact El Niño can have on public health, beyond mere temperature increases.
Dr. Florence Audrey Mamon-Pestaño, a leading medical officer at DOH Region 6, emphasizes the critical nature of understanding El Niño’s health implications. The phenomenon is not just a meteorological event; it is a public health concern that can exacerbate non-communicable diseases and trigger outbreaks of communicable ones.
Yet, the challenge extends beyond the capacity of health institutions. The expected hot weather could lead to shortages in essential services like water and power, further complicating the delivery of healthcare. Hospitals are advised to ensure a continuous supply of safe drinking water and to equip themselves with standby generators to prevent service disruptions. This situation calls for a collaborative effort between health facilities, local government units, and the Bureau of Fire Protection to secure the necessary resources for maintaining health services during this critical period.
The DOH-6’s distribution of medicines and the ongoing information and education campaign are commendable steps toward mitigating the impact of El Niño. However, these institutional efforts must be matched by individual and community actions. The public is urged to adhere to health advisories, such as ensuring safe drinking water, limiting exposure to excessive heat, maintaining hygiene, and seeking early medical consultation if unwell. These simple yet effective measures can significantly reduce the risk of heatrelated diseases.
Moreover, the call to embrace the practices of reducing, reusing, recycling, and tree planting goes beyond immediate health concerns; it addresses the root causes of climate phenomena like El Niño. It’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to the environment, whose health directly influences our own.
As we face this El Niño season, let us be reminded that preparedness, awareness, and collaboration are our best defenses against the health threats it poses. By taking individual precautions and supporting community efforts, we can navigate this challenging period with resilience and ensure the health and well-being of our communities remain intact.