The Department of Health in Central Visayas issued its health advisory to the public attending the series of activities for the feast of Sr. Sto. Nino especially during the grand procession on Jan. 17 and the Sinulog grand parade on Jan. 18.
Regional DOH-7 Director Dr. Jaime Bernadas reminded the public to bring hat and raincoat instead of an umbrella to protect oneself from extreme heat and rains.
Bernadas said each devotee should also bring handkerchief or face towel to wipe sweat and snacks and bottled water or juice to avoid hypoglycemia, ‘a medical emergency that involves an abnormally diminished content of glucose in blood’, and dehydration.
He also reminded the public to refrain from eating food sold in the streets as most of them may be unsafe for consumption.
“If you are feeling well, refrain from going with the procession and Sinulog grand parade,as the route is quite long and will be mingling with thousands of people, where onemight collapse,” DOH medical specialist Dr. Joanri Riveral said.
Devotees with medical conditions who still insist on attending should bring their medicines and be accompanied by a loved one, Dr. Riveral said.
Fiesta Señor Procession Route
Parents are also advised to be extra careful in bringing their children. They are also discouraged from buying balloons for children lest the balloons explode on contact with lighted candles.
Devotees should also wear flat shoes or rubber shoes and comfortable light clothes and refrain from pushing each other to avoid a stampede.
Bernadas said 22 medical posts are stationed in strategic areas along the routes of the foot procession and grand parade. Medical posts are composed of DOH medical personnel and ambulance.
Starting today three medical stations are positioned near Basilica Minpre del Sto. Nino, one near the pilgrim center, another one outside the church adjacent to a fast food chain and another medical station positioned near Magellan’s cross to cater to the thousands of devotees of the Blessed Child Jesus.