By Analou De Vera The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Saturday issued guidelines for accommodation establishments in handling guests amid the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) scare in the country. (REUTERS/DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM/MANILA BULLETIN) Accommodation establishments were encouraged to find out the following:

1. If the guest recently travelled to China or a country or place on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) list with local transmission or outbreak of 2019-nCoV;
2. If the guest/s had a recent contact with a person with a confirmed or suspected case of 2019-nCoV ARD;
3. If the guest/s have fever greater than 38 degrees Celsius and flu-like symptoms such as cough, difficulty of breathing, or shortness of breath.

"If the guest answers 'yes' to any of the questions, s/he shall be considered 'probable nCoV' and must be referred to nearest local health worker or government hospital for nCoV medical protocol," the DOT said. "If the guest answers 'no' to all of the questions, s/he shall be considered “negative nCoV,” but must be referred to a doctor to address symptoms," it added. The DOT said that it will continue to coordinate with tourism stakeholders and local government units in underscoring the “value of taking precautionary measures” to prevent the spread of the new virus. “While the DOT is mandated to encourage, promote, and develop tourism as a major socio-economic activity, at this time our first priority is ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all," said Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat in a statement. “We strongly urge the public to stay informed and abide by the suggested guidelines issued by our health department to minimize risk and help stem the spread of the coronavirus. For your safety, we ask for your full cooperation and understanding at this time,” she added.