Department of Health (DOH)- CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) cautioned residents, especially those living in communities near the vicinity of the Taal Volcano to stay indoors as it continues to spew high levels of sulfur dioxide causing hazardous volcanic smog or “vog”.
“It is best to stay at home and limit exposure outside as much as possible to reduce contact with the smog. This type of air pollution can cause eye, throat and respiratory irritation. It can also aggravate health problems lalo na sa mga mayroong asthma, emphysema at chronic bronchitis,” Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo stated.
“Siguruhin din nating nakasara ang ating mga pintuan at bintana upang hindi makakapasok ang smog sa loob ng bahay. Wear facemask and sunglasses when going out as added protection. At huwag kalilimutang magdala at uminom ng tubig. It is important to always hydrate yourself to reduce throat irritation.”
According to Phivolcs “vog” is a type of air pollution caused by volcanoes, consisting of fine droplets containing volcanic gas, such as sulfur dioxide, which is acidic and can cause irritation to the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract in severities depending on the gas concentrations and durations of exposure.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology’s (Phivolcs) bulletin at 8:00AM today, alert Level 2 is still in effect, where sudden steam- or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can be expected occur that can threaten communities within and around the Taal volcano.
The sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels in some areas of Luzon are presently elevated due to the activity of two volcanoes, particularly Taal Volcano and a submarine volcano in Fukutoku-Okanoba in Japan which recently spewed high levels of SO2 which enhanced the present hazy conditions.
Janairo advised residents to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing physical complaints associated with vog exposure which includes headaches, breathing difficulties, watery eyes and flu-like symptoms.
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