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DPH says people with lung problems should stay inside
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Posted on Apr 06 2005
The Department of Public Health is advising people with lung problems or other serious respiratory illnesses to stay indoors if ash continues to fall from yesterday morning’s eruption of Anatahan.
According to the health advisory, people who experience shortness of breath should immediately seek medical attention. It also said that the Commonwealth Health Center is prepared to handle any increases in the number of patients complaining or suffering from respiratory problems.
For people who cannot avoid going outside, DPH said they should always cover their mouth and nose with a mask or a simple cloth, as volcanic ash irritates the respiratory system.
As much as possible keep skin covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash. Goggles are also recommended if the ashfall gets heavy. Roofs must also be cleared with ashfall should they get thick, which could cause a building to collapse, according to the advisory.
The DPH also advises the public to avoid driving during ashfall, as the volcanic dust clogs engines, blocks vision, stalls vehicles and could, in fact, lead to accidents on the road.
With regards to water, the advisory said the public should not drink water contaminated by ashfall. If the public is using a roof collection water system, they should disconnect it immediately. People are also warned not to drink water with an acid taste or smell on it.
The advisory, however, said that water exposed to ashfall could still be used for cleaning vegetables and fruits. Water collected from rainwater collection systems is also safe for washing clothes, although DPH suggests the use of extra detergent. The advisory also said that affected water is safe for quick showers and baths.
A few hours after the volcano erupted, DPH medical director Richard Brostrom and special assistant Joseph Cabrera Santos immediately rushed to the Emergency Management Office to work on a unified advisory for the public with regard to the health-risk situation.
Brostrom, together with other government officials, finished Volcanic Eruption Advisory No. 1 by 11:45am, which was signed Gov. Juan N. Babauta.
