Yearly, by virtue of Proclamation No. 115-A series of 1966 the month of September is observed as Health, Safety and Sanitation Month which endorses safety consciousness as a positive preventive approach to problems that can be solved by exercising more caution, vigilance, exercise of common sense and respect for the law.
Health, safety and sanitation are among the essential components in protecting ourselves against potential harm and diseases to sustain life. During this time that the global community is hit by the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, the virus spreads primarily to people who are in close contact with and inhales the small droplets produced by the infected person (symptomatic or not) by coughing, sneezing or talking. Following the safety measures, health protocols, sanitation and hygiene such as wearing of face masks and shields, social distancing and washing of hands regularly are the “new normal” ways that people adhere to avoid contamination.
To help prevent the spread of the virus the Department of Health calls on all government agencies, private sectors and non-government organizations to implement various safety protocols and strengthen their efforts in advocating the prevention and control campaigns against the COVID-19 pandemic. The “BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19” campaign of the Department of Health aims to encourage the Filipino people to take an active role in the fight against the virus by practicing the following behaviors simplified into 4 letters:
B- Bawal walang mask
I – Isanitize ang mga kamay, iwas-hawak sa mga bagay
D- Dumistansya ng isang metro
A- Alamin ang totoong impormasyon
In support of this campaign the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Regional Office IX made efforts to help advocate in the prevention and fight against COVID-19 like hanging of the “BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19” banner infront of the regional office as well as shared informations to all networks and nutrition partners. Likewise, the four (4) Nutriskwela Community Radio established by NNC in the region are also used to disseminate correct information in the community. NNC also ensures to regularly post and share various infographics, updates and articles on health, nutrition and safety protocols to increase the public awareness on nutrition especially on boosting the immune system for more protection against the virus and to heighten the prevention and control against COVID-19 in the region.
Remember that your own health and safety is your responsibility as an individual. We have to follow the rules and protocols to prevent the consequences that could harm your life.
NO I Angelica O. Pajulas
References:
https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1966/11/17/proclamation-no-115-a/
