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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOH chief recommends optional wearing of face mask as cases of respiratory illnesses in PH soar

DOH chief recommends optional wearing of face mask as cases of respiratory illnesses in PH soar

Published Dec 5, 2023 07:54 am

Ted Herbosa.jpg

Department of Health (DOH) Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa answers lawmakers' queries during the Commission on Appointments’ (CA) Committee on Health's hearing on his ad interim appointment as health secretary on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. (Senate PRIB Photo)

Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa on Tuesday, December 5 recommended the optional wearing of face masks especially for people who are considered high risk, such as the elderly, in places which are enclosed and those who are prone to illnesses.

During the Commission on Appointments’ (CA) deliberation on his ad interim appointment, Herbosa reminded that December is a season of respiratory illnesses, and that is why he appeals to the public to adhere to observe strict health measures to prevent being infected.

“We recommend optional wearing of mask for people who are high risk, elderly people in places which are enclosed,” Herbosa told lawmakers during the hearing.

“It would be a good practice to also wear your mask especially if you are prone to illnesses and then of course, yung children pag maysakit sila huwag na silang papasukin (children should not be allowed to attend school physically if they are sick). Let them stay at home so that they will not infect the other children,” added Herbosa.

“It is really the season for respiratory illness. Maraming party, maraming Christmas celebration, at kung minsan nagkakahawaan (there are so many parties, Christmas celebration, and sometimes they can’t help but get infected),” he pointed out.

Herbosa also said those who are already experiencing cough and colds should refrain from attending parties since they can potentially infect other people joining in the celebration.

“And then, of course, talagang let’s watch our health, reminders to all our people during Christmas season.

“Pareho pa rin kung ano yung bawal sa inyo bawal pa rin po. Kasi maraming sinasabi this is the time of the year once lang kakain sila ng bawal sa kanila nauuwi sila sa ospital po (It’s the same, if you are told that you are not allowed to eat this food, then don’t eat it. Because there are many people saying this is the time of the year that they can eat foods they are prohibited to eat and they end up in the hospital,” he pointed out.

Last week, the DOH assured the public there is nothing to worry about even as cases of respiratory illnesses had surged in China.

According to the DOH, there is “no evience of novel pathogens or atypical clinical presentations” despite reports of pneumonia clusters.

However, Malacañang announced today that President Marcos has tested positive for COVID-19 and would need to undergo five-day isolation.

The President, however, will still carry out his duties and continue his scheduled meetings via teleconference.

Related Tags

FACE MASK POLICY DOH CHIEF respiratory disease Ted Herbosa
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