MikeLigalig.com

The Department of Health (DOH) has alerted the public against the danger of tetanus infection that maybe caused by firecracker-related injuries during the recent New Year celebrations.

DOH-National Epidemiology Center (NEC) director Dr. Eric Tayag advised the public to seek immediate medical treatment for firecracker injuries to avoid developing tetanus infection.

Tayag said tetanus is a type of bacteria that contaminates wounds and could be fatal if left untreated.

He also said that among the symptoms of tetanus infection are headache, lockjaw, high fever and weakness. It could develop from eight days to three weeks after sustaining the injury, he added.

On Monday, DOH said the number of persons injured or wounded due to firecracker blasts or burns, stray bullets and firework powder ingestion during the New Year revelry had reached 891.

The DOH said that of the 891 cases, 844 were caused by firecrackers, 36 by stray bullets, and 11 by firework ingestion. - pna