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ECQ extension 'won't work' without testing, contact tracing

Philippines | National

ECQ extension 'won't work' without testing, contact tracing

By Gabriela Baron

A coalition of concerned citizens and organizations on Monday, Aug. 16, batted for more testing and contact tracing, noting that enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) alone will not curb coronavirus.

(ALI VICOY / MANILA BULLETIN)

Headed by health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon, Kilusang Kontra COVID (KilKoVid) said in a statement that an extension of the ECQ beyond Aug. 20 without adequate testings and contact tracing "only hurt the poor and the economy."

"We cannot manage what we do not measure. It is only by recognizing the problems that we can supply solutions and it is only by implementing appropriate measures that we can hope to end this pandemic," KilKoVID stressed.

The group urged the government to conduct free targeted testing, increase contact tracing, isolation and accelerate the vaccination program.

It also asked the government to isolate asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 cases through telehome care or in an isolation facility.

Metro Manila mayors, along with health and economic experts, are set to hold a meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 17, to discuss whether or not to recommend an extension of the ECQ in the National Capital Region.

Related Tags

ECQ covid-19 enhanced community quarantine

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