DOH warns vs eating seafood from oil spill areas

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) warned the public yesterday against eating fish and other seafood from areas affected by the oil spill.

In an advisory, the DOH said residents of Oriental Mindoro should avoid swimming in oil spill-affected waters.

The DOH said the oil spill may pose a risk not only to the environment but also to public health.

DOH officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire inspected healthcare centers in Oriental Mindoro and provided medical assistance to affected communities.

Medicine, face masks and other medical supplies were turned over to the provincial government.

Vergeire gave assurance that concerned government agencies are working to mitigate the impact of the oil spill.

The DOH reminded residents of Oriental Mindoro to avoid contact with contaminated sediments, soil and sand. Oil spill-affected skin must be thoroughly washed with soap and water.

Contaminated clothes should be washed, but strong detergents and chemicals must be avoided.

Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment promised emergency employment and other assistance to workers affected by the oil spill.