The Department of Health has advised local government units to always check evacuees forCovid-19 symptoms and to isolate those with symptoms from the evacuation sites.
“Ang ina-advise natin, bago papasukin sa evacuation site, do the symptoms screening. Lahat ng may sintomas hindi na pwedeng sumama doon, dalhin na doon sa quarantine facility,” DOH Usec. Maria Rosario Vergeire said.
Vergeire was reacting to the possibility that reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test or rapid test for Covid-19 may not be available during crisis situation.
Apart from Covid-19 quarantine facilities, Vergeire stressed that LGUs should have separate facilities for evacuation sites with handwashing areas especially during typhoons.
She added public minimum health standards – physical distancing, wearing of face masks, and frequent handwashing – must be observed by the evacuees.
“Kung hindi mangyari ‘yung physical distance, sa dami siguro minsan, talagang naka mask (If physical distancing can’t be observed, may be because there are too many evacuees, wearing of masks) and frequent handwashing should be emphasized,” Vergeire said. – PNA release
