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Physicians' group calls for standard way in implementing health measures to stop COVID transmission

Philippines | National

Physicians' group calls for standard way in implementing health measures to stop COVID transmission

By Noreen Jazul

The Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) said on Monday that there is a need for a “standard way” in implementing health measures to properly control the transmission of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the country.

(Photo by Miggy Hilario / AFP / MANILA BULLETIN)

PCP President Dr. Mario Panaligan said one of the basic problems that contribute to the transmission of the disease is the poor implementation of health measures by the local government units.

“There are some measures that are not implemented properly, when I say ‘properly,’ these are scattered, there’s no unifying or standard way of implementing all these measures to control the spread and transmission of the disease,” Panaligan told ANC on Monday.

Panaligan said that in barangays, people still mingle with each other because they are asymptomatic.

“That can initially cause the spread ,” the medical expert said.

The PCP vice president also said that some areas also fail to implement proper social distancing, which could have reduced the transmission by 78 percent.

Panaligan said the Inter-Agency Task Force and the medical community should come up with a "combined program of action in implementing all effective interventions to prevent the further transmission of the disease."

Panaligan also discouraged rapid antibody tests for asymptomatic individuals saying there is no need for it.

“The best that we recommend is actually just the 14 days. Meaning, if you get exposed, then observe and monitor for signs and symptoms. If they don't develop any symptoms, they are already cleared after 14 days,” he added.

The medical expert also disapproved placing plastic barriers in buses or other modes of public transportation.

If not disinfected properly, Panaligan said “the plastics can easily be contaminated and it can actually cause the spread."

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