Caviteños Warned of Health Hazards After Oil Spill Reaches Cavite Bay

The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) CaLaBaRZon has warned of potential health hazards following an oil spill in Manila Bay, caused by the sinking of the Motor Tanker Terranova in Limay, Bataan.

The Bataan oil spill has reached the shorelines of 8 Cavite municipalities, including Bacoor City, prompting Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla to place these areas under State of Calamity.

DOH urged residents to exercise caution and avoid consuming seafood until further notice, as the oil spill may have contaminated fish and other marine products, potentially leading to food poisoning.

DOH-CHD Assistant Secretary and Concurrent Regional Director Ariel Valencia warned that exposure to the oil spill could cause a range of health effects, including nausea, eye irritation, increased blood pressure, irregular heart rhythm, headaches, loss of appetite, and difficulty concentrating.

Skin irritation, rashes, blisters, and dermatitis may occur if the oil comes into contact with the skin, while consuming contaminated seafood could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fever, and loss of consciousness.

In severe cases, excessive oil exposure could cause convulsions, coma, or even death.

The agency advised anyone who comes into contact with the oil to wash immediately with soap and water, remove contaminated clothing, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.