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Medical group urges public to observe safety protocols amid threat of Omicron subvariants

Philippines | National

Medical group urges public to observe safety protocols amid threat of Omicron subvariants

By Analou de Vera

A passenger (C) sits inside a tricycle covered with a reminder to wear a mask, part of the Covid-19 health protocols, in Manila on February 16, 2022. Ted ALJIBE / AFP

The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) urged the public to remain vigilant and strictly follow the necessary health and safety protocols amid the threat of new variants of coronavirus.

"Huwag kumpiyansa at nasa ating mga sarili ang ika-aano po natin, kung paano kakalat iyan (Don't be complacent. It's up to us how this virus will spread)," said PMA President Benny Atienza during a recent public briefing.

"Sana hindi na po maulit iyong surge, kasi napakahirap po. Huwag na po nating hintayin iyong ma-lockdown na naman tayo (I hope the surge doesn't happen again because it's very difficult. Let's not wait for another lockdown to be implemented again)," he added.

Atienza said that wearing a face mask, frequent handwashing, ensuring proper ventilation, among others will help in protecting a person against the Covid-19 virus.

He also urged the public to seek medical assistance if they already experience symptoms of Covid-19.

"Lalo po ngayon, tag-ulan, hindi natin ma-differentiate kung ano iyong Covid at saka alin po iyong mga may trangkaso kasi, tag-ulan na po ngayon (Especially now that it's already rainy season, it's hard to differentiate Covid and flu)," he said.

"At saka...kung may nararamdaman, magpa-check-up, magpa-test (If you experience symptoms get a medical checkup and get tested)," he added.

To recall, the Philippines has already detected the presence of Omicron subvariants BA.2.12, BA.2.12.1, and BA.4. These variants are said to be more transmissible than the original Omicron variant.

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