Philippines report 2nd COVID-19 death as case count tops 50

By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews

Philippines health officials reported today on the second death due to coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19.

The deceased experienced symptoms on February 29, was admitted last March 5, 2020 at the Manila Doctors’ Hospital, and swabbed for testing last March 8. The patient who tested positive last March 11 passed away around noon of the same day due to severe pneumonia. The patient had existing medical conditions, namely hypertension and diabetes mellitus.

“Our recent mortality have underlying medical conditions, making the patient extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. So we reiterate that the best way to protect yourself from the disease is to keep yourself healthy and practice general preventive measures: proper handwashing, cough etiquette, and social distancing.” Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III explained.

In addition, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 3 additional positive COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 52. The DOH and deployed surveillance teams, in cooperation with concerned Local Government Units, are now conducting extensive information-gathering and contact tracing activities on the new cases.

Giardia in Black and White

“So we continually ask the public to cooperate and help us in the investigation and contact tracing activities. Individuals with history of known exposure to a positive patient and/or travel to areas with local transmission, within and outside the country, presenting with mild symptoms are advised to self-isolate and be home quarantined for 14 days. Those presenting severe and critical symptoms need to be immediately admitted to health facilities. Let us be responsible with our own health, family’s well being, and that of our community.” the Health Chief concluded.