The Philippine General Hospital’s (PGH) Hospital Infection Control Unit (HICU) released a comprehensive guide to address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to managing Covid-19 cases during the holiday season.
PGH announced the “mandatory masking” protocols within the hospital premises in a Facebook post on Dec. 10, following a significant rise in Covid-19 cases during the previous week.
“The HICU will once again require all patients, relatives, staff, and trainees to wear at least a surgical mask at all times when inside any area of the hospital: both indoors and outdoors, inside offices, conference rooms, and clinical areas,” it said.
It emphasized the importance of “wearing masks” within the hospital and in external environments, particularly in situations with poor ventilation, crowded settings, or when individuals feel vulnerable, weak or remain unvaccinated against SARS-CoV-2.
It also recommended that individuals near (within one meter) someone who later tested positive for Covid-19 (confirmed via RT-PCR or Antigen test) should consistently wear a surgical mask whenever possible.
Highlighting a proactive approach to managing mild to moderate Covid-19 cases, PGH suggested that elderly patients or those with comorbidities may reduce the risk of progressing to severe disease by taking antiviral agents within the first five days of symptom onset.
Meanwhile, it noted that the oral antiviral drug currently available in the Philippines is Molnupiravir, and individuals are encouraged to consult with their doctors or PGH if this treatment is deemed appropriate for their condition.
It also clarified that individuals exposed to a confirmed Covid-19 case could still participate in homecoming activities and other Christmas parties, provided they remain asymptomatic.
Exposed individuals are advised to continue their usual activities but must wear at least a surgical mask during such events.