The Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public that the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to be a threat despite the easing of restrictions and the downward trend of cases in the country.

“We would like to reiterate that the COVID-19 virus is still very much present,” said DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Wednesday night, Nov. 12.

“We have to avoid the 3Cs: closed-contact settings, crowded places, close spaces to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 infection, and complement it with the strict and religious adherence to the Minimum Public Health Standards as these will be part of our new normal,” she added.

Vergeire issued the statement after a two-year-old boy tested positive for COVID-19.

“Just diagnosed a 2-yr old kid positive for COVID-19. Asked if he could’ve been exposed to someone or if they went somewhere. Guess what they did? Went to the mall 3 days ago. Please mag-ingat po tayo (let us all be careful),” a doctor posted on his Facebook account.

Vergeire said that the said case was “very unfortunate.”

“Although the recent activities done, like the mall visit, may be a possible source of infection, its exact cause will remain multifactorial and uncertain,” she said.

“Factors such as adults from the same household going to work and bringing the infection home could also be a possibility,” she added.

“More establishments were opened, but we advise parents and guardians to take extra precaution if they will bring their children with them,” she furthered.

The Health official urged eligible Filipinos to get vaccinated immediately.

“The Department of Health is tirelessly encouraging individuals aged 12 and above to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to achieve the ‘cocoon effect’ which protects younger children at home and in the community,” she said.

“The decision to get vaccination will not only benefit the individual, but more importantly, the community as well,” she added.