The total cases of firecracker-related injuries has increased to 771, while the first fatality due to a stray bullet injury amid the holiday season has been confirmed, the Department of Health (DOH) reported Saturday.
In a bulletin, the DOH said the latest tally of firecracker-related injuries covered the period from December 22, 2024 until 6 a.m. of January 4, 2025. Data was reported by 54 of 62 sentinel sites monitored by the DOH.
Thirty nine cases were added to the total since New Year’s Eve, and 16 since New Year’s Day.
The total number of DOH-confirmed fatalities now stands at three. A 19-year-old male from Davao del Norte, who passed away after suffering a gunshot wound, is also this year’s first confirmed case of stray bullet injury.
He was celebrating outside of his residence when he was hit by a stray bullet.
Of the 771 total victims of firecracker-related injuries, 58.8% or 453 individuals were 19 years old or below, while 41.2% or 318 others were aged 20 or higher.
More male victims sustained injuries with 636 cases or 82.5%, than female victims who accounted for 135 cases or 17.5%.
Skyrockets or kwitis—a legal yet dangerous firework—remained as the primary cause of firecracker-related injuries, followed by five star, and improvised PVC cannon or “boga.” The DOH has warned that injuries from these firecrackers can lead to burns and, in severe cases, amputation.
The DOH also recorded two cases of swallowing of firecrackers, both of which involved young children aged three and two years old.
According to earlier reports by 24 Oras, four people in Luzon and Visayas died due to firecracker-related injuries amid the New Year’s Eve revelry.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said Thursday that the number of firecracker-related injuries are still expected to rise in the coming days due to late reports and victims not getting treatment immediately.
Meanwhile, the DOH advised the following in giving first aid to those who were injured due to fireworks:
- Do not ignore even a small wound.
- Immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Cover the wound with sterilized gauze, bandage, or clean cloth.
- Press the wounded part to stop the bleeding.
Meanwhile, those who were injured in the eye can do the following:
- Flush the affected eye with clean and warm water. Do not use cold water.
- Do not rub or scratch the affected eye.
- Cover the affected eye with a clean cloth or gauze.
- Go immediately to an emergency room to receive a tetanus shot.
In case someone swallowed a firecracker, here’s what to do:
- Do not force the victim to vomit.
- Feed the victim with raw egg whites: 6-8 pieces for a child, and 8-12 pieces for adults.
— VDV, GMA Integrated News
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