DOH records 235 firework-related injuries as of January 1

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) counted a total of 235 firework-related injuries as of New Year’s Day, but the number is expected to go up with late reports coming in from hospitals. 

This data was gathered from December 21, 2025 to January 1, 2026, as of 4:00 am. The sample was from 62 sentinel hospitals, which are select government hospitals being monitored by the DOH. 

The injuries recorded as of January 1, 2026 is almost half than the injuries recorded on January 1, 2025. 

While the DOH welcomed the lower amount of injuries, late reports will still be recorded until January 1. 

“In the meantime, all who had encounters with fireworks, no matter how small the wound, should seek consultation at the nearest hospital to avoid tetanus,” the DOH said in a statement. 

Symptoms for tetanus do not appear until eight to 21 days, warned DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo. 

Vaccination against tetanus is available at hospitals, said the DOH.