Firework-related injuries climb to 534, two-thirds are skin burns — DOH

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) reported on Thursday, January 2, an additional 194 firework-related injuries during New Year's festivities, bringing the latest total to 534.

The 194 new cases include 188 from Dec. 31, 2024, three from Wednesday, January 1, and another three in the past few days.

The current total represents a 57% increase from the 340 injuries recorded as of Wednesday.

Compared to the same period in 2024, firework-related injuries during this year’s New Year celebrations are fewer by 9.8% as of January 2. 

However, this marks a sharp decline from the 64% drop in cases reported by the DOH on January 1. 

As hospitals continue to update their reports, the total number of firework-related injuries may still rise further in the coming days.

Of the 534 cases, 356 patients suffered skin burns, while 28 underwent amputations. This means roughly two-thirds of those injured by fireworks experienced burns and/or amputations.

Another common injury, particularly among children and adolescents who make up 60% of the cases, is eye injuries.

The number of individuals aged 20 and older who were reportedly injured has more than doubled, comprising most of the 194 additional cases. This figure increased from 101 on New Year’s Day to 212 on Thursday.

Males remain the most affected by fireworks, accounting for 443 cases, while females represent 91 of the victims.

The DOH said that the leading cause of firework-related injuries was a product called “kwitis,” also known as a sky rocket. This was followed by “boga,” unrecognizable pyrotechnic devices, as well as “five-star” and “whistle bomb.” 

The data was gathered from 62 monitored sentinel sites or hospitals. 

The agency also urged the public to seek medical attention for any injury, no matter how minor, to prevent the risk of tetanus for those hurt by fireworks.

The public is also reminded not to pick up unexploded fireworks but to douse them with water instead.

The DOH also advised the public to clean their surroundings to minimize the presence of gunpowder and maintain a safe, healthy environment.