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Philippines
Friday, March 29, 2024

Maintaining vigilance against COVID-19

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"Hydrate, get enough rest, maintain a healthy diet, exercise, take vitamins C and D, and minimize stress."

 

Since its outbreak, the new coronavirus has caused fatalities in 3,000 individuals worldwide. The virus continues to spread as cases rise in South Korea, United States, and European States, the total number of confirmed cases globally reaching almost 90,000. The World Health Organization (WHO) identified the Philippines as one of the countries able to contain the spread of the virus. Since January this year, there have only been three confirmed cases in the country—one died and the other two recovered. More than six hundred individuals have been investigated by the Department of Health (DOH). So far, no local transmission has been recorded. `

The recognition by the WHO signifies that the infection can be prevented and its spread contained. More than that, this reflects the prompt and effective response of the government, particularly the Department of Health. Initially tagged as ill-prepared, the government showed otherwise by implementing timely measures that suppressed the spread of this highly communicable disease. At the onset of the outbreak, panic ensued due to the contagious nature of this respiratory disease. There was a shortage of face masks as the outbreak coincided with the Taal eruption. The DOH immediately issued medical bulletins as to the recommended personal protective equipment and health precautions. The Department also tracked down right away those who have been in contact with suspected and confirmed cases, and those who came from China and other countries afflicted by COVID-19. Public hospitals have been prepared for the confinement of patients and the department has religiously monitored suspected cases.

In Quezon, there were 71 individuals placed under investigation, 66 of which have already been out of the mandatory quarantine, while the remaining five are still under home quarantine. There are no confirmed cases in the province.

The collective efforts of the people, the national and local health departments, and health workers are sincerely recognized. I thank our health workers and health officials for their hard work that earned the recognition of the WHO. The public’s cooperation, increased health awareness and voluntary reporting of possible infection also helped mitigate the threat of disease in the country. Without the public’s sense of community and obligation, it would be difficult to manage the crisis.

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Despite the low prevalence in the country, we have to brace for the effects of this pandemic, not only in terms of health, but also in tourism and economic growth. Travel bans have been issued by many countries against those with confirmed cases which are foreseen to pose a negative impact on tourism. The President has been careful in enforcing travel restrictions despite the COVID-19 outbreak.

Vigilance, therefore, is highly advised. We must maintain proper hygiene at all times. The best offense is defense. Hydrate, get enough rest, maintain a healthy diet, exercise, take vitamins C and D, and minimize stress—these are the standards in maintaining strong immune systems. Those who are immunocompromised should avoid crowds and crowded places. We cannot be remiss in maintaining precautionary measures, until the threat of this virus abates.

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