MANILA, Philippines – Fireworks-related injuries have reached 929 cases, according to the latest count from the Department of Health (DoH).
The breakdown of injuries is as follows: 882 were due to firecrackers, 36 to stray bullets, and 11 to firecracker ingestion.
Three days ago, the number of fireworks-related injuries was 20 percent lower than last year. but in the DoH surveillance update dated January 3, the margin of difference was closing and is now only 106 cases or 10 percent lower than last year.
Fifty-five patients suffered amputation after getting injured by blasts or burns while 693 were more fortunate they did not get amputated from their injuries.
Four hundred fifty one were caused by illegal fireworks led by Piccolo at 245 cases; kwitis at 134; five-star at 58; Pla-Pla 49 and Luces, 42.
Some 113 persons who were injured were found to be under the influence of alcohol.
DoH officials reiterated their call to injured persons who haven’t sought medical attention to take their wounds seriously as they are at great risk for acquiring tetanus.
Injured persons must receive anti-tetanus shots as tetanus is fatal if not managed early.
Symptoms of tetanus include locked jaw, difficulty in swallowing, spasms, convulsion and difficulty in walking and breathing.
Dr. Eric Tayag, chief of the National Epidemiology Center (NEC), said many wounded patients usually wait for the next day before seeking medical attention.
“Those who were injured by fireworks should immediately seek medical attention because we consider all fireworks-related wounds as serious. they are at risk for tetanus,” Tayag warned.
“we think that the wound is not serious, but if doctors open the wounds, they are actually deep. inside, we can find the chemical and paper used in manufacturing the firework, soil, and dead tissue,” he said.