Answer: (May 18, 2020)
You will be allowed to pass through checkpoints when you travel to Manila for a medical appointment. Transit of people to and from an area under general community quarantine is allowed if it is for medical reasons. Make sure to bring identification cards, proof of residence and a certificate proving you have a scheduled medical appointment, which you will present at checkpoints on the way to the hospital. Please also observe social distancing during transit.
Source: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2020/04apr/2020030-EO-112-RRD.pdf (Page 19, Sec 4)
Answer: (May 8, 2020)
For its reporting of coronavirus cases, the Department of Health considers as recovered cases that were confirmed as COVID-19 positive and who are not showing symptoms anymore and have tested negative for COVID-19 on repeat testing.
“Confirmed COVID-19 cases who have clinically recovered or are well with negative results on repeat testing shall be reported as RECOVERED,” the DOH Administrative Order No. 2020-0013 states.
But there have been cases when patients who have clinically recovered or who feel well and stable were discharged prior to retesting. According to Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, a person who tested positive for the virus need not be tested again before being discharged by the hospital. She said that the decision was “based on the recommendation of experts” to free up hospitals, especially if the patient is already stable and is just waiting for his results. Previously, the DOH discharged patients upon testing negative twice for the virus.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1250237/virus-cases-top-1000-as-doh-steps-up-tests and
https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/health-update/ao2020-0013.pdf
Answer: (May 6, 2020)
Kinakailangan pong dumaan sa 14-day facility-based quarantine ang lahat ng magsisiuwiang overseas Filipino workers, ayon sa Department of Foreign Affairs. Ang mga quarantine facility ng gobyerno gaya nang nasa World Trade Center ay merong mga doktor na titingin at susuri sa kanila. Maging ang mga community quarantine facilities na itinayo ng mga lokal na pamahalaan ay meron ding mga health workers na magsisilbi sa mga buntis at bagong panganak, at marami pang iba. Kaya asahan po ninyo na meron pong doktor na titingin sa inyo sa sandaling kayo ay manganak habang naka-quarantine.
Sources: https://business.inquirer.net/295037/ayala-group-collaborates-for-wtc-we-heal-as-one-center-2/ and https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/health-update/jao2020-0001.0.pdf
Answer: (May 2, 2020)
Maliban sa ID, maaaring mag-isyu ang punong barangay ng sertipikasyon o patunay na ang tatanggap ng ayuda ay residente ng kaniyang barangay at nangangailangan ng ayuda dahil lubos na naapektuhan ng ECQ. Tingnan ang link sa baba para sa mga iba pang katanungan tungkol sa Social Amelioration Program. https://www.dswd.gov.ph/frequently-asked-questions-on-sap/
Answer: (April 29, 2020)
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario S. Vergeire addressed this particular incident in an April 28 briefing saying there is a need to ensure safety and follow protocol in handling a patient suspected for the coronavirus to prevent its spread, especially in high-risk areas and places where community transmission is present. She also noted that limiting the contact between a patient and his or her guardian or visitors is a standard protocol in the intensive care unit to avoid other critical patients from getting infected. Vergeire then gave an assurance that the hospitals involved in the cited incident gave proper and utmost medical attention to the baby. See link of the video of the briefing below.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=249710149483801&ref=watch_permalink
Answer: (April 28, 2020)
Patients need to test negative and be asymptomatic before they are declared recovered from Covid-19. Discharged coronavirus patients are instructed to continue their self-isolation for another 14 days inside their homes.
The Department of Health (DOH) advised those experiencing symptoms but could not get tested for Covid-19 to receive assessment from a licensed health through Telemedicine consultations.
The two priority sub-groups given priority to testing are: (1) patients or healthcare workers with severe or critical symptoms and history of travel or exposure, and (2) patients or healthcare workers with mild symptoms, relevant history of travel or exposure, and considered vulnerable (e.g. 60 years old or older, has other illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes, or is immunocompromised).
Patients or healthcare workers who are not considered vulnerable but with mild symptoms and relevant history of travel or exposure, and those with no symptoms but have relevant history of travel or exposure will also be tested under the expanded testing scheme.
While sub-groups 1 and 2 are given priority, anyone who requests to get tested must be assessed by a licensed health professional who shall determine whether they fall into any of these prioritized groups and whether he should get tested immediately.
Upon assessment, the patient will be instructed to proceed to the most accessible health facility for testing. Otherwise, they will be advised to undergo home quarantine or proceed to a community quarantine facility.
If you are not among those who are to be tested or you are having the symptoms that need immediate medical attention, you may stay home and follow the basic rules of the quarantine as stated in the government guidelines in order to stay safe.
The DOH recommends calling 24/7 Telemedicine Hotlines for those who wish to consult health professionals from their homes. Metro Manila residents may call 02-8424-1724 or 02-7798-8000. Those outside of Metro Manila may use 1555 (for all networks) and the (02) 894-COVID hotline to seek medical advice.
Sources: https://www.doh.gov.ph/node/20274 and
https://www.doh.gov.ph/doh-press-release/DOH-EXPLAINS-COVID-TESTING-PROTOCOL
Answer: (April 28, 2020)
Tanging mga “psychiatric emergency cases” lamang ang tinatanggap ng National Center for Mental Health sa emergency room nito, ayon na rin sa bagong guidelines ng ER at Pavilion 7 na inisyu ng NCMH nitong Marso 23. Maari kayong makipag-ugnayan sa crisis hotline ng NCMH sa numerong 0917-899-USAP (8727) or 989-USAP (8727). Pwede ring tumawag sa trunkline: 8-531-9001 para sa iba pang impormasyon.
Sources: https://www.ncmh.gov.ph/index.php/27-covid-19/76-ncmh-covid-19-revised-guidelines-on-er-and-pavilion-7 and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1262414/62-workers-13-patients-of-natl-center-for-mental-health-positive-for-covid-19
Answer: (April 27, 2020)
The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Cagayan Valley region was reported on March 21. The patient was a senior fire officer who was stationed at the Santa Mesa Fire Station in Manila. He went home to Tuguegarao City on March 11 after taking a sick leave. The 44-year-old fireman, who is tagged PH275, has been confined at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center. He has recovered and was discharged on April 6. He counts among the 20 out of 27 COVID-19 cases in the region who have recovered from the virus, according to Dr. Leticia Cabrera of DOH-Region 2. The authorities have been able to track down some of the passengers of GV Florida Bus GD 36 which the fireman took on March 10 for the 12-hour trip to Tuguegarao City from Manila. The process of contact tracing continues not just for the bus occupants but other people who have interacted with the region’s 27 recorded infections including a health workers who tested positive on April 13.
Answer: (April 27, 2020)
Test results of persons suspected to be infected with COVID-19 are ideally released within 24 to 48 hours, according to the Department of Health. But due to the backlog created by the surge in COVID-19 cases and the expansion in testing, test results usually take up to seven days. The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine is the main laboratory processing the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests, the “gold standard” in testing for COVID-19. There are at least 15 subnational laboratories nationwide that also conduct PCR tests, and since Rosario Memorial Hospital is not one of the laboratories accredited to process the tests, the specimen of your mother may take longer since it has to be sent to another laboratory for confirmation.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1249766/doh-pressed-to-expand-speed-up-virus-testing
Answer: (April 23, 2020)
The Department of Health has urged those who are immunocompromised and have existing health conditions to be more vigilant as they are more vulnerable to COVID-19. However, health workers are among the authorized persons outside of residence and exempted from the strict home isolation under the extended expanded community quarantine so it will still depend on your own decision. You may decide to take a temporary leave and invoke your health condition.
Sources: https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1037382 and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1244515/list-persons-authorized-to-go-out-during-luzon-lockdown
Answer: (April 23, 2020)
Ang isang PUI ay maaaring humingi ng tulong mula sa kanilang punong barangay o Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs).
sa sa mga trabaho ng BHERTS, na nakasaad sa Department of Interior and Local Government Memorandum (DILG) Circular 2020-018, ay ang pag-monitor ng possible COVID-19 cases sa kanilang lugar, at ang madaliang pagbubukod ang mga posibleng nahawa sa isang lugar na malayo sa kanilang pamilya.
Ang BHERTs at ang punong barangay ang nakakaalam kung saang mga libreng pasilidad sa inyong lugar maaaring dalhin ang kaanak na posibleng nahawa. Halos lahat ng mga lokal na pamahalaan ay merong sari-sariling quarantine facilities para sa mga residente nito na PUIs at kumpirmadong bikitma.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1244209/good-samaritan-offering-private-facility-as-quarantine-area-for-pasig and https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/Ao-wants-BHERTs-in-every-barangay-for-preparedness-prevention-and-quick-response/NC-2020-1028
Answer: (April 22, 2020)
On March 28, the Department of Health (DOH) reminded the local government units (LGUs) to be mindful of health protocol when setting up quarantine facilities. Among the guidelines for quarantine facilities to reduce the risk of transmission of the coronavirus disease is that a quarantine facility should have adequate space but must have proper ventilation. If isolation facilities are rooms, each room or individual should have their own toilet as it would defeat the purpose of quarantine. On March 29, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (LGUs) issued guidelines that local government units must follow in setting up temporary quarantine facilities. The identified facility needs to be reported to the National Incident Command of the National Task Force (NTF) for Covid-19 and the Task Group on Resource Management and Logistics. The facility should, as much as possible, be situated some distance away from populated areas but easily accessible to healthcare workers and authorities who will monitor it. The special care facilities need to be well-ventilated structures with walls, windows and doors (negative pressure is not necessary). These can be empty houses or buildings, equipped with appropriate furniture and beds, with a kitchen, a toilet and a bath, with sufficient supply of electricity and running water. Each person should have his own bed, pillow and blanket. The facility should accommodate only a number of people that does not result in crowding and every person must be kept isolated from others and may only be approached by health workers in PPEs. It’s necessary to have one person per bedroom or if there are two people, the beds should be two meters or more away and separated by vinyl curtains that should be decontaminated with the 0.1 percent sodium hypochlorite solution or 62 to 71 percent ethanol at least once a day. To connect with the DOH for proper assistance, call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150; DOH COVID-19 emergency hotlines 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) or 1555 for PLDT, Smart, Sun, and TNT subscribers.
Sources: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/PDF_File/issuances/memo_circulars/dilg-memocircular-2020329_1a459ece60.pdf and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1250147/doh-issues-protocols-for-quarantine-facilities-with-puissues-protocols-for-quarantine-facilities-with-puis#ixzz6KJWBPdVX
Answer: (April 20, 2020)
Plasma, the largest part of a person’s blood, carries nutrients, hormones, proteins and antibodies throughout the body. It is a light yellow liquid once separated from the rest of the blood. Plasma also helps remove waste products from the body. Vital components, such as antibodies and proteins, in donated plasma are used in rare chronic conditions such as hemophilia and autoimmune disorders. “Convalescent plasma” has been prescribed for various infections since the first Nobel Prize for Medicine was conferred in 1901 on Prussian physiologist Emil von Behring for developing an antitoxin for the diphtheria bacteria. The World Health Organization (WHO) also issued guidelines for its experimental use on people afflicted with the Ebola virus in 2014. The Philippine General Hospital has asked people who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate their blood because their plasma contains antibodies that helped the patients survive the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused COVID-19.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1259023/watch-how-convalescent-plasma-from-covid-19-survivors-can-help-other-patients and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1253681/quest-for-covid-19-cure-pgh-needs-blood-samples-from-recovered-patients
Answer: (April 20, 2020)
The new classification system on COVID-19 patients removes persons under monitoring (PUMs) because residents are assumed to have been exposed to the disease due to evidence of local or community transmission in the country. This shifts the focus of the classification to only those who have COVID-19 symptoms and will no longer monitor those who were previously categorized under PUM. The new classification is based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization.
The guidelines in identifying a patient based on the classification is found here: https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/health-update/ao2020-0013.pdf. But a simpler algorithm for triage based on the new classification has yet to be uploaded on the DOH website.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1257197/doh-revises-how-virus-cases-are-categorized
Answer: (April 17, 2020)
he 60-year-old Chinese woman arrived in Cebu City from Wuhan via Hong Kong on January 20 and went straight to Bohol. Two days later, she came down with fever and cold, and was admitted to an undisclosed private hospital in Bohol. As the woman had already recovered and the initial results of her later tests were negative, she was discharged from the hospital. She left for Shenzhen on Jan. 31. However, DOH officials later found out she’s positive for the new China virus, as shown by the result of a separate sample taken from her. As of April 16, no new case was recorded in Bohol.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1224498/60-year-old-chinese-woman-is-phs-3rhd-2019-ncov-case-doh60-year-old-chinese-woman-is-phs-3rhd-2019-ncov-case-doh and https://ro7.doh.gov.ph/official-statement/672-official-statement-no-21-central-visayas-covid19-updates
Answer: (April 15, 2020)
According to the World Health Organization, there has been no documented COVID-19 transmission by confirmed COVID-19 cases that are asymptomatic. Developments in the coronavirus disease are still being regularly monitored and the WHO does not discount the possibility that an asymptomatic transmission may occur.
Source: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/situation-reports/20200402-sitrep-73-covid-19.pdf?sfvrsn=5ae25bc7_2
Answer: (April 8, 2020)
So far there are no city mayors who are positive of Covid-19. At least two mayors got tested — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and San Juan City Mayor Francis who both tested negative for the disease. Mandaluyong Mayor Menchie Abalos is undergoing self-isolation after the city health department informed her she had interacted with confirmed carriers.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1252587/san-juan-mayor-negative-for-covid-19/ and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1242283/isko-moreno-chief-of-staff-test-negative-for-covid-19/
Answer: (April 7, 2020)
Based on the Department of Health’s guidelines, other residents are not considered PUMs unless they were directly contacted by the DOH through contract tracing. PUMs are identified as asymptomatic individuals who traveled to areas with reported local transmission in the last 14 days or has history of exposure to COVID-19 (direct contact to COVID-19 patient, staying in the same environment and living in the same household as a COVID-19 patient, travelling in close proximity like within one meter or 3 feet in any kind of conveyance).
Only PUMs are not allowed to leave their houses because they are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine at home or a barangay isolation unit to monitor the possible development of symptoms, according to the updated decision tool released on March 16 by the Department of Health. Local health officials should issue a certificate of quarantine completion after 14 days.
For further assistance, call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150; DOH COVID-19 emergency hotlines 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) or 1555 for PLDT, Smart, Sun, and TNT subscribers.
Sources: https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/Updated_Decision_Tool_March_16.pdf https://quarantine.doh.gov.ph/public-advisory-no-12-interim-guidelines-on-the-management-of-persons-under-monitoring-pums-suspected-with-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-191-for-home-quarantin/
Answer: (April 7, 2020)
The Department of Health’s media relations told the Inquirer that “only the patient gets the test results unless there was prior arrangement” about the release of the results.
Answer: (April 6, 2020)
It has been reported that the DOH has sent home people positive for COVID-19 subject to strict isolation and strict monitoring. The COVID-19 virus is not transmitted through the air and airborne transmission of the virus from person-to-person over long distances is unlikely according to the World Health Organzation. It has been considered a droplet infection. That is, it can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently cleaning your hands and by wearing face masks especially when you are outside. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.Also make sure you maintain social distancing of at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1226800/doh-novel-coronavirus-not-yet-classified-as-airborne#ixzz6HgXQt9WS; https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1242460/covid-19-patients-with-mild-symptoms-will-be-allowed-to-go-home-doh-says
Answer: (April 3, 2020)
Are you having the flu, common cold or the new coronavirus? The symptoms for all three viral infections can be the same. The symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, dry cough, diarrhea and noticeable shortness of breath, according to the World Health Organization. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III had advised those with symptoms to manage their condition as if they have COVID-19, and not wait to be tested. If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have COVID-19, stay at home and keep track of your symptoms. The emergency warning sign is shortness or difficulty of breathing which means there is a need to get medical attention right away by going to the hospital. More than 80% of COVID-19 cases are mild. A minority of cases develop pneumonia, and the disease is for especially worrisome for the elderly and those with other medical problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes or heart conditions. They are the people at risk and should contact their doctors early in the course of the illness. In the current DOH protocol, they are the ones who are among the priority to be tested for COVID-19 infection. If you are among those with mild symptoms, isolate yourself from other people while you stay at home, stay in a specific “sick room” and use separate bathroom if possible, wear face mask if you are around people, don’t share glasses, spoons and forks etc, and practice proper handwashing and hygiene etc.– you take steps to care for yourself and to help other people in your home and community safe from infection.
For further queries, you may call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150; DOH COVID-19 emergency hotlines 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) or 1555 for PLDT, Smart, Sun, and TNT subscribers.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1249196/manage-it-duque-says-dont-wait-for-test-if-you-have-symptoms; https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1239707/flu-and-coronavirus-similar-symptoms-different-fears#ixzz6IWWzEA8o and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html
Answer: (April 3, 2020)
There is no list of barangays in Makati that have confirmed coronavirus cases. However, as of April 2, 4 p.m. there were 144 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city, 544 persons under investigation, 263 persons under monitoring, six confirmed deaths, and five persons who have recovered.
Answer: (April 3, 2020)
No, the virus that causes COVID-19 is not transmitted through the air or the wind according to the World Health Organization and the Department of Health. Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air. Airborne transmission from person-to-person over long distances is unlikely. People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. The DOH clarified the recent World Health Organization statement and said that the possible airborne transmission of the new coronavirus disease may only be if it’s in a confined hospital setting.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1226800/doh-novel-coronavirus-not-yet-classified-as-airborne#ixzz6HgXQt9WS; https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses; https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1097011 and https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/modes-of-transmission-of-virus-causing-covid-19-implications-for-ipc-precaution-recommendations
Answer: (April 2, 2020)
Based on the Department of Health’s updated decision tool as of March 16, if you have symptoms of the COVID-19 but have no travel history or an underlying condition, you are neither a person under monitoring nor a person under investigation. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III had advised those with symptoms to manage their condition as if they have COVID-19, and not wait to be tested. But the only way to ascertain whether you have COVID-19 is through testing. Rapid test kits have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, but the polymerase chain reaction-based test in laboratories remains to be the “gold standard” in testing for the new coronavirus disease. Since you have not been cleared of COVID-19 yet, it is best to still observe social distancing, practice proper cough etiquette and hand hygiene at all times at home. For further queries, you may call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150; DOH COVID-19 emergency hotlines 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) or 1555 for PLDT, Smart, Sun, and TNT subscribers.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1249196/manage-it-duque-says-dont-wait-for-test-if-you-have-symptoms;https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1251366/fda-approves-rapid-test-kits and https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/Updated_Decision_Tool_March_16.pdf
Answer: (April 2, 2020)
There is no definite answer yet if a recovered person can still be contagious. Since Covid-19 infection is new there is still a lot to know about it including whether or not a recovered patient can be infected again and be still contagious. To be safe, discharged coronavirus patients are instructed to continue their self-isolation for another 14 days inside their homes, the Department of Health said last March 27. There has been reinfection cases reported in China and Japan and Assistant Health Secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said it needs a lot of science. “We just take note of that, there are no reinfection cases in the Philippines and we are adequately prepared for that,” she said during a press briefing on March 2. In a separate press briefing weeks later, she said that though some reports in other countries were saying there is reinfection or recurrence, in our country, it has not been proven and right now there’s no hard evidence for this globally.
Answer: (April 2, 2020)
No. The public information officer of the Department of Health told the Inquirer that you are to bring the patient immediately to the hospital for proper management and treatment and if needed, referral to dedicated hospitals like the Philippine General Hospital and the Lung Center of the Philippines. If you were directly exposed to the patient, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor for symptoms. The World Health Organization has advised that if you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly as this may be due to a respiratory infection or other serious condition. Call in advance and tell your provider of any contact with confirmed positive patients, etc. . Why? Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also help to prevent possible spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.
For more information on COVID-19, call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150; DOH COVID-19 emergency hotlines 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) or 1555 for PLDT, Smart, Sun, and TNT subscribers.
Answer: (April 1, 2020)
Based on the guidelines of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society on Covid-19 and pregnancy, pregnant women with the disease should only go to the hospital after notifying their healthcare provider/facility. The guidelines stated how hospitals should manage these patients and ensure proper infection controls are observed.
Answer: (April 1, 2020)
The cost of testing for COVID-19 (regardless of results) will be shouldered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. as long as it is prescribed by a health professional. According to PhilHealth chief Ricardo Morales, all expenses of hospitalized patients under investigation (PUIs) will also be shouldered by the state insurance firm.
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
No positive case has been recorded in Tagaytay City, as of March 30, based on the Department of Health tracker. However, there are hundreds of confirmed patients whose residences are still being determined. Meanwhile, at least 15 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in other cities and towns in Cavite as of March 25, five of them traced to Bacoor City (1 dead). In Naic, its mayor Junio Dualan and another Naic resident was also infected. Two cases were recorded in Dasmariñas City, and one each in Imus City (patient recovered), Gen. Trias City and in the towns of Silang, Tanza, and Rosario. Authorities are still determining the residence of one more Cavite patient.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1248023/cavite-mayor-tests-positive-for-covid-19-as-calabarzon-cases-hit-70 and https://ncovtracker.doh.gov.ph/
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
Yes, a baby may be infected with COVID-19 and die. But it is considered rare. While we are still learning about how COVID-2019 affects people, older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, cancer or diabetes) appear to develop serious illness more often than others. And to date, all of those who died from the virus in the Philippines were adults. But in the United States, there had been reports of infants and minors who have died from COVID-19.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1250294/in-rare-case-us-infant-dies-from-covid-19#ixzz6IEQ6nvyu
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
There are 10 total confirmed cases in Valenzuela as of 10 a.m. on March 31, Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian announced on his Facebook page. The latest patient is a 41-year-old male who has a travel history to Japan. The city also recorded two deaths.
Sources: https://web.facebook.com/REXGatchalianValenzuelaCity/photos/a.202573989898648/1543149855841048/?type=3&theater and https://web.facebook.com/REXGatchalianValenzuelaCity/photos/a.202573989898648/1542421559247211/?type=3&theater
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
Under the enhanced community quarantine for Luzon, “strict home quarantine’”is being implemented in all households especially for senior citizens who cannot even leave their houses to go to supermarkets as they are part of the vulnerable sector. They will only be allowed to leave their house and will be issued a quarantine pass to buy their essentials if they live alone. The Civil Service Commission said last March 17 that government agencies should adopt a work from home arrangement or use a skeletal force to keep providing services.
Sources: https://pcoo.gov.ph/press-briefing/inter-agency-task-force-for-the-management-of-emerging-infectious-diseases-virtual-presser-with-cabinet-secretary-karlo-alexei-nograles-department-of-agriculture-secretary-william-dar-department-of/ and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243433/csc-on-work-from-home-arrangement
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
Yes, there is already a confirmed case in Eastern Visayas. The first and so far the only case in the region is a 51-year-old woman who visited Japan, arrived in Manila on Jan. 2 and came home to Northern Samar on March 3. Eastern Visayas recorded a total of 553 persons under investigation (PUI) so far, of which 397 were still PUIs, either admitted or in home isolation, as of March 30. Forty-three PUIs have been discharged from the hospital while 112 were had improved conditions and were cleared from home isolation.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1247309/51-year-old-woman-is-first-covid-19-case-in-eastern-visayas and https://ro8.doh.gov.ph/covid-19-updates-in-eastern-visayas/
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
The COVID-19 test kits each cost around P8,000 to P11,000. But Filipinos can be tested for free. Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) chief Ricardo Morales said Philhealth will shoulder the cost of COVID-19 testing as long as it is prescribed by a health professional. He also said all expenses of hospitalized patients under investigation (PUIs) will be shouldered by the state insurance firm. Read more:
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243643/doh-central-visayas-test-lab-for-covid-19-not-yet-activated#ixzz6IEE1N6oI and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1248729/philhealth-to-shoulder-hospital-expenses-of-covid-19-patients-2#ixzz6IE9Ntgch
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
Discharged coronavirus patients are instructed to continue their self-isolation for another 14 days inside their homes, the Department of Health said.
Answer: (March 31, 2020)
No, persons under monitoring (PUM) are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine at home or in a barangay isolation unit to monitor the possible development of symptoms, according to the updated decision tool released on March 16 by the Department of Health. PUMs refer to asymptomatic individuals who traveled to areas with reported local transmission in the last 14 days or has history of exposure to COVID-19 (direct contact with COVID-19 patient, staying in the same environment, and living in the same household as a COVID-19 patient). Local health officials should issue a certificate of quarantine completion after 14 days.
Source: https://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/Updated_Decision_Tool_March_16.pdf and https://quarantine.doh.gov.ph/public-advisory-no-12-interim-guidelines-on-the-management-of-persons-under-monitoring-pums-suspected-with-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-191-for-home-quarantin/
Answer: (March 30, 2020)
There are no confirmed COVID-19 cases in Barangay Loyola Heights, according to the latest data of the Quezon City government on March 28.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/QCGov/photos/pcb.238498680871230/238498400871258/?type=3&theater
Answer: (March 28, 2020)
Request for personal protective equipment (PPEs) for medical workers are being addressed by the Department of Health. Health Undersecretary Rosette Vergeire said hospitals could request PPE through [email protected]. They can pick up the PPE at the DOH offices or have the items shipped to them, depending on their location. On March 25, Vergeire said the DOH has provided PPEs in 37 health facilities that requested protective gear and these facilities are located in Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, Apayao, Calabarzon and Sorsogon.
Sources: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1247922/country-club-offers-shelter-to-weary-docs-nurses#ixzz6HyTGyh12 and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1248400/doh-on-distributes-ppes-and-test-kits
Answer: (March 28, 2020)
he Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan, China has been said to be the starting point of the COVID-19 outbreak. The live animal market was closed on January 1 and China banned the buying, selling and eating of wildlife on February 24. Both the virus (SARS-CoV-2) and the disease (COVID-19) were unknown before the outbreak began in December 31. While scientists are in a race to find a cure to the disease, they are studying its origin, particularly on the live animals to human transmission. Two possible scenarios are being considered by scientists. In one scenario, the virus evolved from a pathogen (an organism that causes disease) from a non-human host and then jumped to humans. The researchers proposed bats as the most likely source as SARS-CoV-2 is very similar to a bat coronavirus. But there are no documented cases of direct bat-human transmission, suggesting that an intermediate host was likely involved between bats and humans. The second scenario sees a non-pathogenic version of the virus which jumped from an animal host into humans and then evolved into a disease causing virus among humans. Being considered source are pangolins (armadillo-like mammals found in Asia and Africa). Thus to date, being considered as origin are bats and pangolins. The initial findings of a study published in Science Daily, also show that there is no evidence that the virus was made in a laboratoy or otherwise engineered based on an analysis of public genome sequence data from SARS-CoV-2 and related viruses. The conclusion is that the virus is the product of natural evolution ending any speculation about deliberate genetic engineering.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1236000/covid-19-more-than-89000-infected-over-3000-dead
Answer: (March 27 2020)
A person can go out to buy food and medicine depending on the rules or schedule set by their local government unit (LGU). Some LGUs impose schedules with window hours for going out using the quarantine pass. If there is no announcement, you may contact your barangay to know the policy in your place.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1248332/lift-window-hours-for-market-grocery-runs-lgus-told
Answer: (March 27 2020)
Most of those infected have recovered with only supportive care because as of now there is no specific treatment for or vaccine against the COVID-19. However, the symptoms experienced by the patients are treated based on his or her clinical conditions so the treatment given may vary between patients.
Source: https://www.doh.gov.ph/COVID-19/FAQs
Answer: (March 27 2020)
No, you should not get out of your house, especially if it is not urgent. If isolation from a person under monitoring (PUM) has not been observed in your house, your chances of being exposed to COVID-19 are high and you should not risk further transmission of the disease to those outside your house. Under DOH guidelines, PUMs should maintain a distance of 1 meter from other people at all times. PUMs should also avoid going to shared spaces inside the house such as the kitchen and bathroom. The PUM should always wear a mask, observe proper hand and respiratory hygiene and disinfect surfaces and items he or she has touched, especially in shared spaces. PUMs and household members of PUMs should immediately seek medical care when signs and symptoms develop.
Answer: (March 27 2020)
Yes, family and friends may view the body as there is no evidence of persons being infected from exposure to the bodies of persons who died from COVID-19, according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The body may be cremated or buried. The body should not be touched or kissed and family and friends must observe social distancing and proper hand hygiene when viewing the bodies in funeral homes or mortuaries. People with respiratory symptoms should also avoid viewing the body to prevent contamination of the place and further transmission. Other ceremonies, other than the burial or cremation, should also be postponed until the end of the epidemic. The safety of those handling the bodies should also be a priority and they should observe necessary hand hygiene and should wear personal protective equipment. They should ensure that any body fluids leaking from any orifice are contained.
Source: https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/331538/WHO-COVID-19-lPC_DBMgmt-2020.1-eng.pdf
Answer: (March 27 2020)
The virus is new and how long it stays on surfaces is still under study. The answer so far is that it varies from a few hours up to several days. According to the World Health Organization, it is not certain how long the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 that causes COVID-19 survives on surfaces but it seems to behave like other coronaviruses and studies suggest that coronaviruses may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days with the duration varying under different conditions. Meanwhile, findings of a new research published only this month in The New England Journal of Medicine show that the new coronavirus survives on plastic and steel for three days, on cardboard for a day and on copper for four hours.
Sources: https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses and https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2004973
Answer: (March 26, 2020)
Hospital expenses of all coronavirus patients in the country will be shouldered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., said the agency chief Ricardo Morales. All expenses of hospitalized patients under investigation or PUIs will also be shouldered by the state insurance firm. At the same time, Philhealth will shoulder free testing for COVID-19 as long as it is prescribed by a health professional.
Answer: (March 26, 2020)
The Covid-19 virus is new and whether if a recovered patient can be infected again is still under study. On reinfection cases, Assistant Health Secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said it needs a lot of science. “We just take note of that, there are no reinfection cases in the Philippines and we are adequately prepared for that,” she said during a press briefing on March 2. In a separate press briefing weeks later, she said that though some reports in other countries were saying there is reinfection or recurrence, in our country, it has not been proven and right now there’s no hard evidence for this globally. Source:
Source: https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1234316673936527361
Answer: (March 26, 2020)
It is not advisable to go straight to your doctor’s office as this may put more people at risk. Your first action is to determine if you need to be tested or not. According to the current protocol of the Department of Health, you can be tested if you are (1) experiencing severe symptoms or(2) experiencing mild symptoms but have (a) existing conditions (medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes) or (b) are 65 years old and over. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breaking, you should seek medical attention. If you are not among those who are to be tested or you are having the symptoms that need immediate medical attention, you may stay home and follow the basic rules of the quarantine as stated in the government guidelines in order to stay safe. If you have questions or need assistance if you suspect you are infected with COVID-19, call the COVID-19 hotlines:02-894-COVID (02-894-263843) free 24/7 services. Smart and PLDT subscribers may call 1555.
Related stories: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1239707/flu-and-coronavirus-similar-symptoms-different-fears#ixzz6HmnMQFcF and https://opinion.inquirer.net/128250/staying-sane-and-centered-in-the-time-of-covid-19
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
No. Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air according to the World Health Organization. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire reiterated this during her press briefing on March 23. She said that there is no strong nor enough evidence to say that the virus is airborne. It remains to be categorized as a droplet infection. This means that the disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs out or exhales droplets. This is why it is important to practice social distancing and stay more than 1 meter (3 feet) away specially from a person who is sick.
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
As much as 75,000 people in the Philippines could be infected by the coronavirus disease 2019 in two to three months, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said on March 18, citing estimates of experts from the Department of Health, and World Health Organization, including Filipino epidemiologists. However, this scenario could be avoided if the country can flatten the curve, which means keeping the number of cases from reaching the projected 75,000 peak through stringent measures such as social distancing. As of March 24, 4 p.m., there are 552 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country, of which 35 have died while 20 have recovered.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1244291/health-experts-project-covid-19-cases-in-ph-may-peak-to-75000-in-3-months and https://ncovtracker.doh.gov.ph/
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
To date, there is still no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat COVID-19. Scientists are still in a race against time to develop a vaccine against the virus. However, those infected with the virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms (like fever and headache) and those with severe illness should receive optimized supportive care. If you have tested positive for COVID-19 infection and are asymptomatic (you don’t have fever, headaches, body pains, difficulty of breathing and other symptoms), you have to isolate yourself and go into quarantine. The coranavirus is most contagious before and during the first week of symptoms according to Science News published by the Society for Science and the Public, citing a study done for coronavirus victims in Germany.
Source: https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/359509/busting-10-covid-19-myths/#ixzz6HapqyIAL
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
Nagtala ang Pilipinas ng 552 positibong kaso ng Covid-19, ayon sa datos ng DOH hanggang 4 ng hapon ng Marso 24. Sa bilang na ito, 20 ang naka-recover o gumaling. (There are a total of 552 positive Covid-19 cases in the Philippines. Of this number, 20 individuals have recovered. For updates on the stats, please refer to
Source: https://www.inquirer.net/novel-coronavirus.update and https://www.inquirer.net/infodesk
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
Ginger is a popular spice with known health benefits. But, in its latest advisory to debunk myths on COVID-19, the World Health Organizaion said that there is still no vaccine to treat or cure the virus infection. It does not advise specific medicine to prevent or treat the novel corona virus. Scientists all over the world are still on a race against time to develop a vaccine.
Related stories: https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/359509/busting-10-covid-19-myths/ and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243757/covid-19-unmasking-the-myths
Answer: (March 25, 2020)
The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) will shoulder the costs of the tests, quarantine and confinement of persons who are confirmed positive for COVID-19. PhilHealth created an isolation package for COVID-19 worth P14,000. If the patient needs further care, the P16,000 moderate pneumonia package can be used. For more serious cases, the P32,000 pneumonia package is also available.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1240372/philhealth-to-pay-for-covid-19-tests
Answer: (March 24, 2020)
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said last Monday the Department of Health will issue within the week guidelines for funeral parlors and crematoriums following reports some had refused to handle the bodies of patients. And because of the Luzon quarantines, Vergeire also said wakes are prohibited because these were mass gatherings. She said the transfer of remains of those who died but not found to be Covid positive, should be coordinated with the concerned local governments. But their remains need not to be shipped by plane or boat.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1247367/total-cases-near-500-deaths-now-33
Answer: (March 24, 2020)
The Department of Health has not yet designated dedicated hospitals for Covid patients. But Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergerie agreed last Saturday that the department agrees to the call of 11 Metro Manila hospitals for dedicated Covid-19 hospitals. So far, the DOH only identified last week three government hospitals that will serve as the main destination of Covid patients who could not be accommodated in other public or private hospitals. Serving as “referral facilities” for Covid cases are the Philippine General Hospital in Manila, the Lung Center of the Philippines in Quezon City and Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium in Caloocan City. Vergeire said PGH has already agreed to become our COVID-19 hospital and “are slowly transitioning so we can use them in the coming days, specifically for COVID-19 cases.” But PGH spokesperson Jonas del Rosario clarified the hospital will not be exclusive to Covid patients but will accept other patients with other ailments.
Answer: (March 24, 2020)
It is not true that the COVID-19 pandemic will be over by summer because the corona virus allegedly does not thrive in hot temperature and high humidity. The World Health Organization said in an advisory that this is one of the myths regarding COVID-19. It said that from the evidence so far, the virus can be transmitted in ALL areas with hot and humid weather. So regardless of climate (or when it is summer already), we have to take protective measures to keep ourselves safe. The WHO reiterated that the best way to protect ourselves against COVID-19 is by frequently washing our hands with soap. By doing this, we eliminate viruses that may be in our hands and avoid infection that may occur by touching our eyes, mouth and nose.
Related stories: https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/359509/busting-10-covid-19-myths/ and https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1243757/covid-19-unmasking-the-myths
Answer: (March 23, 2020)
An overseas Filipino worker in Italy who returned to Baguio is the first confirmed case of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the city, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Monday (March 23).
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1246977/baguios-first-covid-19-case-is-ofw-from-italy#ixzz6HUz5f2O9
Answer: (March 23, 2020)
There is still no available vaccine for COVID-19. Scientists all over the world are working double-time to expedite the development of vaccine. The earliest some say could be a year from now. Some in the wider scientific community cautioned on the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, which have been used to treat malaria, as a cure for COVID-19. They said more research is needed to prove that they really work and are safe for COVID-19. The DOH has warned against using the antimalarial drug chloroquine due to its potential negative side effects. The Philippine Pharmacists Association, Inc. issued an advisory last March 21 which urged pharmacists to exercise caution in dispensing the drug chloroquine and to STRICTLY DO NOT DISPENSE WITHOUT VALID PRESCRIPTION.
Sources: https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/359509/busting-10-covid-19-myths and https: //newsinfo.inquirer.net/1245619/us-fast-tracking-antimalarials-to-treat-coronavirusfilthy-lucre-paper-money-shunned-for-fear-of-virus-spread#ixzz6HV9awo6K
Answer: (March 23, 2020)
The Department of Health, in a memorandum dated Feb. 17, outlined guidelines on management of persons under monitoring (PUM), or those who have a known history of exposure and had recent travel from China. PUMs should stay in a well-ventilated room and shall maintain a distance of 1 meter from people at all times. Only one person who is in good health should be assigned as the PUM’s caretaker. PUMs should be barred from shared spaces such as the kitchen or bathroom. On March 15, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said six people positive for COVID-19 were sent home, subject to strict isolation and strict monitoring.
Answer: (March 23, 2020)
Health Secretary Undersecretary Rosette Vergeire said last March 20 that the DOH had not seen a need for COVID-19 mass testing yet. The priority for testing are those experiencing severe symptoms or mild symptoms (but have pre-existing conditions) or are 65 years above. According to the World Health Organization, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention. For questions or requests for assistance if they suspect of being infected with the virus, they may call the 24/7 free DOH COVID-19 Hotline 02-894-COVID, 02-894-26843 and 1555 (for PLDT,SMART, Sun and TNT subscribers).
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1245529/doh-sees-no-need-for-covid-19-mass-testing-yet#ixzz6HToecTim
Answer: (March 21, 2020)
DOH Undersecretary Rosette Vergeire said on March 20 that three hospitals in Metro Manila—UP-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) in Manila, Dr. Jose M. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium in Caloocan City, and Lung Center of the Philippines in Quezon City—were designated as COVID-19 referral hospitals, meaning these would cater exclusively to COVID-19 patients. If you are experiencing severe symptoms and/or were exposed to a COVID-19 patient, you may go to these hospitals to get checked.
Meanwhile, five laboratories in the country can now process clinical tests of individuals suspected of having COVID-19. Besides the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Muntinlupa, four other laboratories are located in San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City, and the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City.
Source: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1245707/philippines-five-laboratories-to-test-patients-for-covid
Link: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1245731/covid-19-referral-hospitals
Answer: (March 21, 2020)
According to the World Health Organization, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness and dry cough. Some patients could also experience aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. However, not all who are infected develop symptoms. Only those who experience the symptoms and, at the same time, have recent travel history to countries with confirmed local transmission, or had close contact with a confirmed patient can get tested for COVID-19.
Answer: (March 21, 2020)
Studies are still being done and data are so far limited, but according to the World Health Organization, there is no evidence at present that pregnant women are at higher risk of severe illness than the general population. Considering the changes in their bodies and immune systems however, pregnant women can be badly affected by some respiratory infections. They should, therefore, take precautions to protect themselves against COVID-19 and seek medical help when they experience symptoms like fever, cough or difficulty in breathing. A key concern is the impact to newborns. Early studies to understand the impact of COVID-19 infection on pregnant women suggest that the infection is not transmittable to newborns.
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