TIMELINESS

DOH-CAR issues regional update on COVID-19

by Noemi Ruth Bucasan and Hanna Joyce Gwyneth Racca

Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) officials updated the

public on February 19, 2020 regarding alleged cases of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-
19).

According to the regional update by DOH, 24 people are currently under observation
with 42% from Baguio City, 25% from Abra, 17% from Benguet, 12% from Mt. Province, and 4%
from Kalinga. 16 people were already discharged with eight are still waiting for laboratory results
among others.

Locals and tourists recommend the DOH to conduct a history of travel to people visiting
the City of Baguio.

Ms. Karen Lonogan, Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit Head, responds to
the request stating, "I guess yes, they can do that but I don't think we can actually recommend
those requests because first of all, we need to look for the person.”

Lonogan reiterates that precaution is more of education and implementation to the

public.

“Overlooking the health behavior of the community right now is really high that if they
have these kind of signs and symptoms, and have a travel history, they actually consult their
private physician. We can see that kind of practice right now," later added Lonogan.

Government agencies such as the DOH, DILG (Department of the Interior and Local
Government), and DOT (Department of Tourism) then released a joint memorandum informing
the public that it is safe to organize and attend public gatherings, meetings, and festivals as long
as all precautionary measures identified by the DOH are observed.

The DOH continues to observe and conduct surveillance methods on the alleged cases
of people infected with the COVID-19.