QUEZON CITY, March 12 -- The Department of Health (DOH) confirms the death of the confirmed COVID-19 patient with ID PH35. This brings the total number of mortalities in the country to two (2), including the first COVID-19 death in the Philippines last February 1.

PH35, who 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. PH35 was admitted together with her husband PH34 who remains confined in Manila Doctors Hospital.

“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.

Available data show that elderly people (average of 66 years) and those with underlying medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic lung disease, and immunosuppression are vulnerable to this disease.

“We further urge those who are immunocompromised and are with existing health conditions to be more vigilant and avoid crowded areas and mass gatherings," Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III stated.

Updates on Positive Cases

Today, DOH reported 3 additional positive COVID-19 cases (PH50-52), 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.

“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.

For a summary of all confirmed COVID-19 cases tested in the Philippines, whether Filipino or Foreign National Updates as of March 12, 2020, please see this link https://www.doh.gov.ph/doh-press-release/DOH-REPORTS-1-COVID-DEATH-AND-3-NEW-CASES (DOH)