Beware of a text message that is currently circulating around the Philippines and other Asian countries today saying that the radiation from the out of control nuclear plant will reach Philippines and other Asian countries today and everybody is advised to stay indoors for their safety especially when it rains.
A sample of the said text/sms message is posted below:
BBC FLASHNEWS: Japan government confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asia countries should take necessary precautions. If rain comes, remain indoors first 24hrs. Close doors & windows. Swab neclskin with betadine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precautions. Radiation may hit Phil at starting 4pm today. Pls send to your loved ones.
“4.30PM the nuclear powerplant in Japan explode. So, when it rains later or tomorrow dont go out and if u are out, make sure u have umbrella or raincoat bocausethis rain can cause skin cancer etc. Please pass to other people..”
There was a nuclear blast 4:30pm Sunday in Fukushima Japan. If it rains today or in the next few days, DO NOT GO UNDER THE RAIN. If you get caughtout, use an umbrella or raincoat, even if it’s only a drizzle. Radioactive particles, which may cause burns, alopecia or even cancer, may be in the rain. – Pls take note~!!
DO NOT BELIEVE IT and DO NOT FORWARD this message to anyone! It’s a false warning manipulated to spread unnecessary anxiety and confusion.
Here’s the official statement from Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI):
The DOST-PNRI routinely undertakes daily radioactivity monitoring in the environment. Based on DOST-PNRI monitoring, there has been no increase in the levels of radioactivity since the time of the Fukushima event.
A plume trajectory study from the Fukushima site by the World Meteorological Organization based in Melbourne, Australia showed that the plume from the site of the incident will not pass the Philippine territory as of March 14, 2011.
- Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo said the public should not believe in rumors that the alleged nuclear meltdown in “Fukushima,” or other places in Japan threatens to affect other places with radiation.
- The advice circulating that people should stay indoors and to wear raincoats if they go outdoors has no basis and did not come from the DOST or the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Center.
- The DOST clarifies that there is no immediate danger to the Philippines and advises the public not to believe these rumors currently spreading through text messages, emails, the Internet, and other means of communication.
- The Department also advises the public not to entertain these rumors and to stop forwarding such messages so as not to sow panic among the people.
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