DOH-7 raises ‘Code White Alter’ for May 12 polls

Local

AS THE country gears up for the May 12 election, the Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-7) has raised a Code White Alert to ensure hospitals and health offices are ready to respond to possible medical emergencies during the election period.

Through Regional Circular No. 2025-0046, all local health officers, provincial DOH officials, hospital chiefs, and designated emergency personnel will impose preparedness protocols under the agency’s Integrated Code Alert System.

The Code White Alert activates heightened readiness in all government health facilities across the region.

Hospitals are mandated to mobilize emergency medical teams, establish communication systems, and ensure the availability of logistics for quick deployment in case of election-related emergencies.

Personnel assigned to rapid response units must remain on standby throughout the alert period, which spans from May 9 to 13.

These teams are expected to handle various health scenarios that may arise during the elections, including heat-related illnesses and injuries from potential crowd incidents.

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Managers and other designated focal persons are also tasked with continuous monitoring of their respective jurisdictions.

They are required to provide real-time health assessments and respond promptly to emergencies in coordination with local government units.

Aside from emergency response, DOH-7 is also focusing on preventive health measures as temperatures continue to soar across the region.

The agency has issued a public advisory urging voters to protect themselves from extreme heat, especially on election day.

Voters are encouraged to avoid outdoor exposure between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s heat is at its peak.

To stay safe, the department recommends bringing water tumblers, wearing light and breathable clothing, and carrying umbrellas, fans, or hats.

According to DOH-7, prolonged exposure to high temperatures may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, heatstroke, digestive problems, respiratory issues such as asthma, and other complications.

In cases of heat-related illness, affected individuals should be brought to shaded or cooler areas immediately.

The agency advised applying ice packs to key body parts such as the armpits and groin, removing excess clothing, and using electric fans or misting sprays to aid in evaporative cooling.

DOH-7 reiterated that preparedness and preventive care are crucial to ensuring public health safety as the country exercises its right to vote.(MyTVCebu)