There are 12 additional confirmed cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), bringing the total number of positive cases to 64.
Department of Health said that they have already deployed surveillance teams in cooperation with concerned local government units in conducting extensive information-gathering and contact tracing activities on the new cases.
“We continually ask the public to cooperate and help us in the investigation and contact tracing activities. Please contact DOH and call the designated hotline at (02) 8-651-7800 loc 1149-1150 for any new leads. For those who are confirmed cases, please let our hospitals take care of you. Studies show that the chances of recovery are high. Let us take it upon ourselves to protect our family and our community’s health and well-being,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said.
Available data show that elderly people (average of 66 years) and those with underlying medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic lung disease, and immunosuppression are vulnerable to the disease.
“We further urge those who are immunocompromised and are with existing health conditions to be more vigilant and avoid crowded areas and mass gatherings,” said Duque.
“I also implore everyone to please stop hoarding basic commodities particularly hygiene and sanitation products. It does not help us tight off COVID-19. Realize that when you hoard, you are being part of the problem by denying the rest of your fellowmen the means to protect themselves,” the Health Chief concluded.
