MANILA – Amid the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Department of Health (DOH) is urging the public to limit face-to-face activities in the upcoming yuletide season.
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said while it is unavoidable for Filipinos to have face-to-face gatherings during the holidays, it is preferable to do it in well-ventilated areas or just shorten the duration of in-person activities.
“Mas mataas ang risk [sa pagkalat ng COVID-19 ang] in-person activities kaya po kung hindi maiiwasan ang mga ito, piliin po natin ang mga outdoor activities na open at nasa well-ventilated areas,” Vergeire said in a virtual presser.
“If and when hindi po maiiwasan na magkaroon ng mga ganitong activities, remember to [follow] these minimum health standards, such as wearing face masks, face shields, physical distancing, and cough etiquette,” she added.
The health department also prohibited buffet-style food servicse and sharing of household items during celebrations. The use of videoke machines in parties will not be allowed as singing “could transmit the virus at a higher chance.”
Proper hand hygiene before and after exchanging gifts should also be observed.
Meanwhile, the DOH official added that Filipinos can do their Christmas shopping online. The public is also discouraged from traveling to areas with higher quarantine classification, and vice versa./PN
