1st case of hearing loss among new firecracker injuries

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) yesterday recorded a total of 96 cases of fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) that included the first case of loss of hearing due to fireworks.

The latest FWRI Report of the DOH said the victim is a 23-year-old woman from Central Luzon who experienced hearing loss after passive exposure to kwitis (sky rocket).

“Fireworks can lead to hearing loss. Firework explosions result in sound levels of 140-150 decibels (dB) which can lead to pain and ear injury after exposure,” the DOH warned. “For comparison, the sound of a normal conversation is around 60 dB; the sound of a motorcycle is 95 dB; sirens are at 120 dB. Loud noises above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to ears.”

“Watching community fireworks displays from a safe distance is still the best. If you cannot avoid exposure to fireworks and their loud sounds, use hearing protection like earplugs or earmuffs. If you notice any pain, discomfort, ringing or buzzing in your ears, talk to your doctor,” the health department added.

The DOH said this now brings the total FWRI cases to 96, with three out of every 10 cases coming from the National Capital Region (NCR) to 33 or 34 percent.

Following NCR in the most number of cases are Central Luzon (12 or 12 percent), Ilocos region (12 or 12 percent), Soccsksargen (6 or 6 percent), Bicol and Western Visayas (5 or 5 percent each). Ninety six percent happened at home and in the streets, mostly by males with active involvement.

The top ranking identified fireworks that cause at least seven out of every 10 (72 percent) FWRIs are boga (improvised cannon), 5-star, kwitis, piccolo, pla-pla, whistle bomb and luces.

Illegal fireworks (boga, 5-Star, piccolo, pla-pla) are to blame for about six out of every 10 cases (57 or 60 percent), the DOH added.

The report noted that as of 5:59 a.m. of Dec. 29, there were eight new injuries, with victims ranging from 5 to 49 years old, mostly males (7 or 88 percent). All of these new cases occurred at home and in the streets.

Six or 75 percent were due to illegal fireworks, while another 6 or 75 percent more had active involvement.

Meanwhile, in Region 1, three of the latest 25