Browsing: Respiratory

The Bediding phenomenon hit the southern region of Java, bringing extreme cold temperatures that impact human health.  Bediding is a seasonal phenomenon that occurs at the beginning of the dry season. The term itself comes from the Javanese word “Bedhidhing’. The air temperature becomes very cold from night to morning, while the temperature soars to strong heat during the day. Due to the drastic temperature change, it triggers hypothermia and respiratory illnesses in some people.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has announced that online sales of vape products will be suspended starting 20 July 2024. This action is a decisive move aimed at bolstering public health and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. It is part of an effort to address concerns over the accessibility of these products to minors and to enforce controls on their distribution. 

The Department of Health (DOH) advocates for all Filipinos to learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), emphasising its critical role in saving lives during emergencies. This appeal comes as the DOH highlights the urgent need for widespread CPR knowledge among the general public.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) poses significant health risks for senior citizens, particularly those with weakened immune systems. According to Dr. Rontgene Solante, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, RSV can lead to severe respiratory infections, especially in older adults. During a media panel in Taguig City, he emphasised that one out of three elderly patients hospitalised due to RSV may die within a year after discharge. This alarming statistic underscores the need for increased awareness and preventive measures.

Jakarta, a bustling metropolis marking its 497th anniversary, was overshadowed by a pressing concern: its deteriorating air quality. 

On June 8, 2024, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a significant rise in sulfur dioxide emissions from Kanlaon Volcano, reaching 4,397 tons per day. This elevated level of emissions signals heightened volcanic activity, necessitating Alert Level 2. This warning highlights potential explosive eruptions and restricts access to the volcano’s 4-kilometer radius.

The Department of Health confirms the first vaping-related death in the Philippines, highlighting serious health risks and sparking urgent discussions on stricter e-cigarette regulations. Health experts and advocates call for comprehensive measures to protect the youth from vaping-related illnesses and prevent further tragedies.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) remains vigilant as it monitors the activity of Kanlaon Volcano, situated in the province of Negros Occidental. Recent observations suggest increased volcanic activity, prompting consideration of raising the alert level from its current status to level 3. 

As Bhai Kaba fights pneumonia in the ICU, unity and support spread across online and offline communities. Zaskia Adya Mecca’s bravery in sharing her story ignites a vital discussion on an often overlooked public health issue. Collaboration among healthcare professionals and government officials is imperative.

A tragic gas poisoning incident occurred in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya where four individuals lost their lives due to the accidental release of toxic gas during an unauthorised excavation.  The victims included three individuals who were initially involved in the digging operation and a barangay council member who attempted to rescue them.