MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is closely monitoring the entry of all travelers from China amid the outbreak of a mysterious viral pneumonia.

Health Secretary Francis Duque III over the weekend said the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ) is on alert and tightly watching travelers from all seaports and airports.

“All incoming travelers, especially those manifesting fever or signs of respiratory infection, shall be checked,” he disclosed as he called on the public, particularly those with a history of travel from China, to seek immediate medical consultation if experiencing any flu-like symptoms.

The health chief ordered an intensified monitoring of all travelers following reports that 44 people have been infected with a mysterious viral pneumonia in China.

Citing reports from China, Duque said the mysterious disease is similar to a “viral pneumonia of unknown origin.”

Duque advised the public to adopt healthy lifestyles, practice proper hand hygiene, and observe cough etiquette to prevent the transmission of respiratory infections.