The Department of Health (DOH) cautioned the public on Friday, Jan. 3, against the spread of misinformation regarding an alleged international health concern and urged everyone to rely on verified information from official channels to prevent panic and confusion.
"Please do not share questionable websites or online sources," the DOH said in a statement. "Let us not spread misinformation and confusion," it added.
The DOH was addressing circulating social media claims about a "new epidemic" allegedly overwhelming hospitals and crematories in China.
Currently, DOH noted that reliable sources "do not support" circulating posts on social media about the alleged international health concern.
"There is no confirmation from either the cited country or the World Health Organization (WHO)," the DOH said.
The Philippines, through the DOH, is an active participant in the WHO Member States' network that follows the International Health Regulations (IHR).
"This established system provides reliable updates on international health concerns," the DOH said.
The DOH added that the Philippine disease surveillance systems are "in place and working."
The Health Department also assured the public that it is "actively verifying all information and will keep the Filipino public updated."