The OCTA Research Group is recommending to the Philippine government a two-week extension of the strict travel restrictions imposed on countries with the new variant of COVID-19.
Experts explained that the possibility of entry of individuals carrying the new SARS-CoV-2 strain may take place if restricted travel is eased. They also advised stricter border control and monitor individuals entering the country.
Five more countries, including China, were included in the travel ban on Tuesday. More than 30 countries are already covered by the ban which is expected to last until Friday, January 15 unless extended.
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire reported in the Laging Handa briefing on Wednesday that they are now starting to conduct the “genomic biosurveillance” where specimens will be collected weekly from vulnerable sectors.
Meanwhile, the second batch of gene sequencing results on the new strain of COVID-19 is expected to be released on Thursday or Friday this week. – PTV News
