The Social Security Fund (CSS) has activated a "green" alert in all its health facilities as a preventive measure to respond quickly to any emergency during the festive days.
The decision comes due to the increase in travelers, street parties, crowded beaches, and alcohol consumption. Dr. Carlos Cerruth Cedeño, head of Emergency Management at the CSS, explained that the green alert implies having staff and equipment ready to spring into action if demand surges.
He refers to 32 active health facilities across the country, with doctors, nurses, technicians, laboratory staff, radiology personnel, and risk management teams prepared for extra shifts if needed. Additionally, 50 ambulances are operational nationwide, ready for transfers and pre-hospital care.
The CSS insists on not waiting until the situation is critical to seek help. Attending a health center immediately at the first sign of symptoms or an accident can make a difference. The green alert will be active throughout the entire Carnival period, because "the party passes, but health does not recover so easily."
Dr. also recommended the designation of a designated driver and gave several other tips: avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and watch children and the elderly, who are the most vulnerable to heat and dehydration.
For any citizen who may need it in the midst of the carnival, the numbers don't lie. In similar situations, the CSS has attended to more than 8,000 emergencies, most related to trauma, injuries, traffic accidents, and alcohol and food poisoning.
