The Department of Health (DOH) urged different local government units (LGUs) affected by typhoon Ulysses to ensure that health protocols are being followed in their respective evacuation centers--- as there is a "strong possibility" of COVID-19 transmission in such temporary shelters.

Residents shelter in a classroom used as an evacuation centre in Camalig town, Albay province on November 11, 2020 (Photo by Charism SAYAT / AFP / MANILA BULLETIN)

“It's a possibility. It's a very strong possibility. That is why kailangan mag matyag ang ating mga safety officers na pinapatalaga ng DOH sa mga local government units---yung pagsunod sa minimum health standards sa mga naturang evacuation centers ,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III in a media briefing on Friday.

Senator Risa Hontiveros made a similar appeal. “Kung akala nating malala na ang sitwasyon ngayon, mas lalala pa kung magiging COVID superspreader ang mga evacuation centers natin (If we think we are in a worst situation, it will get worse if our evacuation centers become COVID superspreaders),” she said.

“Para sa karamihan ng nasalanta, lahat na nga ay nawala sa kanila, tapos, magkakasakit pa sila? Tulungan natin silang umiwas sa COVID-19 (For many of our fellowmen who lost a lot during the calamity, will they be sick in the end? Let’s help them avoid being stricken with COVID-19),” Hontiveros added.

If possible, Duque suggested that only one family should be accommodated per classroom or tent and maintain proper ventilation in order to prevent disease transmission. This was also seconded by DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, saying that those staying in evacuation centers may face a risk of COVID-19 infection.

Vergeire also reminded the LGUs to also provide face masks to evacuees.

“Face masks effective siya kasi ginawa siya specifically to filter organisms. Ngayon pag nababasa, bumababa ang effectiveness to control infection. Kailangan pinapalitan ,” said Vergeire.

“Isa sa paalala na binigay sa local governments and even with our regional offices na lahat ng papasok sa evacuation areas…. bigyan nyo sila ng supply ng mask para hindi na nila kailangan isuot ang mask overnight na basang basa ,” she added.

Hontiveros said that aside from being ‘mindful’ of COVID-19 health protocols among the evacuees, the DOH should deploy doctors to evacuation centers to check for symptoms and other health concerns, especially for the senior citizens, children and those immune-compromised’.

Likewise, health officials, she said, must also ensure quick isolation and referral to hospitals if needed. This will help keep the survivors of Typhoon Ulysses safe while their communities are being restored and rebuilt, the lawmaker reiterated.

Analou De Vera & Hannah L. Torregoza

Protect evacuees from COVID infection, DILG urged