BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO City – The City Health Office (CHO) has issued a renewed call for the public to wear facemasks in response to the increasing cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
As of Dec. 20, active cases in the city have risen to 79, up from 63 on Dec. 13.
Dr. Jan Reygine Ansino from the CHO’s Epidemiological Surveillance Unit emphasized the importance of mask-wearing in various settings, including public and work places, healthcare facilities, public transport, and during social activities.
Starting Dec. 21, city hall employees and visitors were strongly advised to wear masks.
Since the beginning of the year, the CHO has recorded 1,290 COVID-19 cases, with 1,185 recoveries and 26 deaths.
“In January our cases were low. There was a peak of cases from April to June. This December there is again a rise in the number of cases,” said Ansino said.
Ansino expressed concern, noting a significant increase compared to the same period last year.
Among the 15 new cases reported, four individuals have been hospitalized.
Ansino warned that even mild cases can quickly become critical, urging the public not to underestimate mild symptoms.
In controlling the spread of COVID-19, especially during the holiday season, the CHO highlights the importance of facemasks, proper hand hygiene, and physical distancing.
“Your cooperation is pivotal in safeguarding the health and well-being of the community,” it added./PN
