The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) advised the affected communities to be vigilant on the health hazards of volcanic ash to human health as alert level 4 was raised over Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, Albay.

According to PRC Health Services, exposure to falling ash may cause a number of health problems especially respiratory illnesses such as nose and throat irritation, coughing, bronchitis-like illness, and discomfort while breathing. Eye irritation and minor skin problems are also among the bad effects of exposure to volcanic ash.

It can also cause vehicular mishaps resulting to injuries and casualties because of slippery of roads and poor visibility in areas affected by the ash fall.

Volcanic ash consists of powder-size to sand-size particles that have been blown into the air by an erupting volcano.

“The Philippine Red Cross already activated its health volunteers to disseminate awareness campaign on the health hazards that may ensue to individuals living around an erupting volcano,” PRC Chairman Richard Gordon said.

As part of the dissemination campaign, the PRC also educated the affected communities on ways to cope with ash fall and advised the residents to seek immediate medical attention in case of health concerns caused by volcanic ash.

“We urge the affected individuals to wear dust masks or anything to cover their nose and mouth to protect them from catching harmful emissions from the volcanic ash. We also advise the residents to report immediately to their local health centers and nearest PRC Chapter in case of health concerns from volcanic ash,” Gordon said.

To date,the PRC has already provided dust masks to 4,000 individuals. Another 4,000 dust masks were also sent yesterday in Albay for distribution in the coming days. A total of 60 goggles, and 300 N95 masks were also provided to the affected individuals to avoid the harmful effects of volcanic ash.

The PRC also conducted hygiene promotion activities to a total of 1,153 individuals in various evacuation centers in Albay. Five water bladders were already installed to provide the affected individuals access to clean and safe water.

Meanwhile, PRC assets such as three water tankers, two hot meals on wheels, three trucks and one radio team with communication equipment were all deployed.