DOH: Medical teams now ready for Sinulog

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH)-7, through its Health Emergency Management Staff (HEMS), is getting ready for the biggest religious and cultural events this weekend in line with the 453rd Fiesta Señor and Sinulog Festival.

DOH-7 HEMS Cluster Head Dr. Shelbay Blanco said plans are already laid out for the solemn procession on Saturday and the Sinulog Grand Parade the next day.

"DOH-7 will spearhead deployment of teams in coordination with public and private sectors for the solemn procession on Saturday afternoon," he said, citing some of the measures the regional office will undertake in its participation for the festivity.

The long foot procession, as one of the yearly religious practices, is expected to gather thousands of devotees of the Santo Niño and due to the throng of people, there were instances in the past that participants pass out.

Blanco said there will be at least 24 medical teams to station strategically along the processional route. Each team has six members composed of one doctor, one communicator while the rest are trained nurses.

The penitential procession will start from the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño to Osmeña Boulevard; right turn General Maxilom Avenue; right turn to Imus Ave; left turn to M.J. Cuenco Avenue; right turn to Urdaneta Street; left turn to P. Burgos Street; right turn to Osmeña Boulevard; then back to the minor basilica.

Some ambulances, too, will be on standby along the route if in case patients need to be rushed at the hospital, said Blanco.

He added all hospitals, including private-owned institutions, within Cebu City are instructed to be in full alert as DOH-7 declared the "code white" alert level. This status means that hospital manpower must be ready to respond to any emergency situation.

While for the anticipated Sinulog Grand Parade, he said the Cebu Medical Society will lead the provision of health services and deployment of personnel in coordination with DOH-7.

Blanco also did not miss on giving some advices to people who wish to participate in the procession or witness the Grand Parade.

"Just be mindful of yourself. If you are physically fit, then there will be no problem. But if you have chronic illnesses, try to gauge yourself if you can, if not then better stay at home," he said.

Blanco also reminded the public to take their medicines they have been maintaining, and most importantly, bring someone as a company.

"Bring light snacks and water to prevent dehydration, wear comfortable clothing and footwear," he said.

"For parents, if it would be possible, avoid bringing along children.  But if not, let your children wear some identification tags with name, address and contact number just in case your child might be lost in the thick of the crowd," he added. —GAN (FREEMAN)