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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOH reassures public amid surge of respiratory illness in China

DOH reassures public amid surge of respiratory illness in China

Published Nov 29, 2023 05:07 am

The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday, Nov. 29 allayed Filipinos' concerns in response to the surge in respiratory illnesses among children in China since mid-October.

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Photo from DOH

"We want to reassure our kababayans (fellow Filipinos) that, as of now, there is nothing to worry about," the DOH said in a statement.

Despite media reports of pneumonia clusters, the DOH said there is "no evidence" of novel pathogens or unusual clinical manifestations.

It assured Filipinos that the Philippine government is closely monitoring the situation and working with international health officials.

Meanwhile, it warned the public against spreading misinformation and urged them to rely on official announcements.

China's National Health Commission claimed that the increase is related to the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions and the arrival of the cold season.

The DOH encouraged the voluntary use of masks for added safety, particularly for those with comorbidities and autoimmune diseases.

It reiterated that there is no cause for concern and that the government places a high priority on the safety of the Filipinos.

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