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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Take extra precautions': PH Red Cross warns public vs Lambda variant, rise in COVID-19 active cases

'Take extra precautions': PH Red Cross warns public vs Lambda variant, rise in COVID-19 active cases

Published Aug 16, 2021 04:31 pm

(JANSEN ROMERO / MANILA BULLETIN)

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Monday, Aug. 16, reminded the public to “take extra precautions” to keep themselves and their families safe amidst the ongoing public health situation in the country.

“Always wear a mask,” said PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Senator Richard Gordon.

Gordon is even encouraging the public to double their especially when going out to reduce the possibility of getting infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

“I recommend that you double mask especially when you are in crowded areas, observe proper social distancing, wash disinfect your hands regularly, and stay at home as much as possible,” Gordon said.

As of Aug. 16, data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed that there are 14,610 new COVID-19 cases in the country with 106, 672 active cases. The Philippines’ total COVID-19 cases tally is now at 1, 755, 846.

Amid the surge in COVID-19 cases in the country due to the Delta variant, DOH Undersecretary and spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire on Monday also confirmed the presence of the new “Lambda” variant in the Philippines which has been confirmed in more than 20 countries.

PRC noted that to date, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet classified the Lambda variant as a variant of concern.

However, PRC stressed that the Delta remains “one of the most dangerous variants for its viral load is 1,300 times as compared to the original COVID-19 virus.” Given this, Gordon once again reminded the public to practice protective measures at all times.

Aside from practicing health protocols, Gordon also emphasized the importance of vaccination against COVID-19.

“Getting vaccinated is still the way to reach our goal of herd immunity,” Gordon said.

“Vaccines work, and vaccines continue to save lives every day the best way to protect yourselves, your loved ones, and your community is by getting vaccinated,” he added.

To help the government’s vaccination program, the PRC is also offering vaccination against COVID-19. To register for vaccination, interested parties may call 1158.

Related Tags

delta variant lambda variant Philippine Red Cross covid-19 COVID-19 CASES richard gordon PH Red Cross
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