By Analou De Vera
The 32 Filipinos repatriated from China's Hubei province did not exhibit any flu-like symptoms when they arrived in the Philippines on Sunday, the Department of Health (DOH) said.
"All 32 repatriates landed safely and free of any signs and symptoms, hence, they were all sent to New Clark City for close observation and monitoring for 14 days," the DOH said in a statement.
(AP File Photo / DOH / MANILA BULLETIN)
According to the health department, 30 of those repatriated were overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), while two are members of the Philippine consulate staff in China.
The DOH said that the repatriates had undergone three levels of screening. The agency said that before they boarded the plane, the repatriates were screened to determine if they are symptomatic (has fever, cough, and colds) or asymptomatic (does not have any signs or symptoms).
During the flight, the repatriates were closely monitored for the occurence of any signs and symptoms. Upon landing, they were again assessed if they developed signs and symptoms.
The DOH assured that the repatriates are well-accommodated and closely monitored, and all basic necessities were provided--including hygiene kits and meals. The quarantine procedure is in coordination with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Provincial Government of Tarlac, the DOH said.
The DOH assured that the repatriates will be regularly monitored by medical personnel "to ensure their health and safety."
"If an individual, during his/her stay in the quarantine facility, suddenly shows signs and symptoms, the DOH had deployed medical teams to immediately assess and facilitate transfer to hospital for close monitoring," the health department said.
"The DOH will be taking charge of the management, coordination, and logistics of the entire quarantine process. Rest assured that repatriated OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) will be attended to and treated with utmost care," it added.
Meanwhile, the Code Blue Alert, which requires half of all hospital personnel to report for duty in order to provide medical assistance and services, has been raised to all hospitals under the DOH-Central Luzon Center for Health Development.
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