Rise in COVID-19 cases in Davao region blamed on gatherings, improper use of face masks, face shields
DAVAO CITY – The Department of Health (DOH) in Davao region has pointed out that social gatherings because of complacency and the improper use of face masks and face shields are among the gaps they have observed as the region recorded an increase in the number of active Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases Sunday.
In a press briefing Monday, Dr. Annabelle P. Yumang, DOH-Davao Center for Health Development chief, said strict compliance with the imposed health protocols were "not sustained." Last May 1, the DOH recorded 808 active cases of COVID-19 in the region. However, last Sunday, the number of active cases recorded increased to 2,015.
The region has surpassed the 26,000 mark in COVID-19 cases and has logged 26,067 since March last year.
Yumang said the gaps they have identified include the gatherings where "physical distancing is not observed especially during mealtime." She added that the number of participants in gatherings also exceeds the set maximum limit. "Makita sad nato nga during gatherings, kung mag-storyahanay syempre ma-excite sila, makalimot na sila na ang ilang mga face masks wala na natarong. Ang ilang face shield wala na nila natarong og butang (We also observe that during gatherings, the people forget to properly wear their face masks and face shields while talking to others)," she added.
The DOH also identified gaps in hospitals and government offices. Yumang said in hospitals, aside from exposure to COVID-19 positive cases, they also noted the improper use of personal protective equipment (PPEs) among healthcare workers.
"Ang handwashing nila dili pud ginahimo all the time (Handwashing is also not performed all the time)," she said. "There is increased complacency among our healthcare workers because of the COVID-19 vaccination status," she added.